The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) recently released its annual report on deaths and injuries from off-highway vehicles (OHVs). OHVs include all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), four-wheelers, dirt bikes, snowmobiles, and other vehicles capable of off-highway travel.
Riding an OHV should be a fun experience, but it’s important to follow safety guidelines. In this article, we’re sharing some key findings from the report along with OHV safety tips.
33% Increase in OHV-related Fatalities
The report found a 33% increase in OHV-related fatalities in 2020 compared to 2019. This is the most recent data available. Overturning and collisions with other vehicles or stationary objects were the leading cause of death. Individuals were often ejected from the vehicle in these types of incidents.
It also found that children under 16 and adults ages 45-52 have higher death rates in off-highway vehicles. ATVs were involved in more than two-thirds of all OHV-related deaths. There were more than 500,000 emergency department-treated injuries in the United States associated with OHVs from 2018-2022. The most injuries tend to be fractures, contusions/abrasions, and internal organ injuries.
OHV/ATV Safety Tips
Wearing a helmet and proper gear like long pants and boots will help protect you if you do experience an OHV incident. Stay off paved roads and never ride on public roads except to cross (where permitted by law). Don’t drive while impaired.
Never ride with more passengers than seats! Most OHVs/ATVs are designed for a single rider. Get training from a qualified instructor. OHV riders younger than 16 should only drive age-appropriate youth models.
If you or a loved one has been injured, contact the Schuerman Law office today. Schuerman Law has been working with personal injury claims for over 40 years. John Schuerman will compassionately advocate for injured individuals as well as their families while fighting for full compensation of their claims. Schuerman Law offers evening and weekend appointments in addition to home and hospital visits. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 1-800-274-0045.
