Statistics on the dangers of off-road vehicles are a startling reminder regarding their safety and usage around the farm
Off road vehicles are a convenient and common piece of equipment used by many farmers and ranchers with their day-to-day operations. It is not uncommon for many youth under the age of 18 to be behind the wheel of an ATV (All-terrain vehicle), UTV (utility task vehicle), or ROV (recreational off-highway vehicle). Unfortunately, use of these vehicles by those under 18 has resulted in many serious accidents and fatalities.
As parents and grandparents we often become complacent when it comes to the kids driving and riding OHVs and we often get a lot of grief from the kids when it comes to using and wearing safety devices. The statistics don’t lie and they only account for those accidents reported. I am sure there are many on the farm incidents that never get reported or are not serious enough to warrant a trip to the emergency room.
In Missouri, there are no age requirements for driving an ATV (4-wheeler) but helmets are required for anyone under 18. To operate a UTV (side-by-side) in Missouri, you must have a valid driver’s license. In Arkansas and Oklahoma there is no age requirement on ATV operation, but a valid driver’s license is required for a UTV.
Despite warnings from manufactures, federal agencies and consumer safety advocates that off-highway vehicles are unsafe on roadways, an increasing number of states have passed laws allowing OHVs (off-highway vehicles) on public roads. According to recent data, most OHV deaths take place on roads.
Overturning or a rollover is a common hazard in a lot of incidents and can occur while ascending or descending steep terrain, attempting to make a sharp turn, improper loading, or driving at a high rate of speed. Reports have found that overturning is the primary hazard in many fatalities. Collisions are the other most frequent hazard associated with fatalities which include collisions with stationary objects or with vehicles including other OHVs. Ejection or partial ejection from the OHV appears to occur in most fatalities.
The majority of OHV accidents involve young riders, alcohol, passengers or using ATVs on public roads. Show-Me Farm Safety has a set of resources that are useful when determining the proper use of an OHV.
https://farmsafety.mo.gov/farm-equipment/all-terrain-vehicles/
Missouri, Arkansas and Oklahoma all have different laws and regulations when it comes to usage by anyone under 18, helmets, and licensing. Always check with your state laws regarding usage. If the OHV is equipped with seat belts or other restraining devices, ALWAYS utilize them and wear a helmet.
It cannot be stressed enough that these types of accidents can be prevented by utilizing safety devices such as seat belts and by preventing underage youth from operating any OHVs. Even though they are a convenient and time saving mode of transportation around the farm, they also carry a high risk of death from improper use and lack of knowledge by underage drivers.
