Ohio Child ATV Injuries Could Be Reduced With Age Appropriate Machines

ATVs are dangerous to ride, yet Ohio child ATV injuries and child ATV accidents occur at an alarming rate. While the statistics show that the number of children who die in ATV accidents is decreasing, we can do more to keep our kids safe.

Over the past few decades, 361 people have died in ATV accidents in Ohio. Sadly, 80 of those were children younger than 16 years old. Nationally, about 200 children are killed each year in ATV accidents, while tens of thousands more are seriously hurt. In fact, the Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that in 95 percent of these child ATV accidents, the children were riding adult sized ATVs. (https://abcnews.go.com/GMA/story?id=125613&page=1)

The problem with children riding adult sized ATVs is that the machines weigh more than 600 pounds and reach speeds of 75 mph or more, making them far more difficult for children to operate and handle. In fact, Science Daily reports that Dr. Jeffrey R. Sawyer published a study that found that most ATV accidents are rollover, “when the vehicle tips over and crushes the rider. Children, because of their low weight and strength, are unable to correct the rollover and get crushed.” Dr. Sawyer also said, “Children are going to ride ATVs, so they need to do it safely. These are motor vehicle, not toys, and parents should use the same guidelines they would when allowing their children to drive cars. For example, you would not let your 10-year-old drive a car, so why would you let him or her drive and ATV that can weigh hundreds of pounds and go up to 100 mph? The most important ways to prevent injury are adult supervision, helmets, protective clothing and age-appropriate vehicles.” (https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/04/110404105913.htm)

Ohio Child ATV Riders Manufacturer Recommendations

According to the companies that make ATVs, there are no vehicles that are safe or recommended for children less than 6. For children over the age of six, the following ATV sizes are recommended:

• Children ages 6 – 11 should ride ATVs under 70cc
• Children 12 – 15 should ride ATVs under 90cc
• Children 16 and older can ride ATVs over 90cc, with adult supervision and the appropriate safety gear.

About The Cochran Firm – Ohio

The Cochran Firm – Ohio is an experienced full service, personal injury law firm with offices in Cincinnati and Dayton and handles personal injury cases throughout all of Ohio. Founded over 40 years ago by famed attorney, Johnnie L. Cochran, Jr., The Cochran Firm – Ohio, has established itself as one of the premier personal injury law firms in the United States and has been recognized for delivering successful results to their clients across a broad range of claims stemming from car / auto accidents, personal injury, wrongful death, medical malpractice, nursing home abuse, premises liability, and product liability lawsuits. For over 40 years, The Cochran Firm – Ohio’s team of experienced lawyers continually fight for justice for all its clients. If you’ve been injured call Ohio’s experienced full service law firm “The Cochran Firm – Ohio” today at 513-381-HURT.