Nothing could be more exciting than riding a speeding snowmobile or a fast-moving ATV across the beautiful Alaskan landscape, but this recreational activity comes at a steep cost for some. ATV accidents tend to cause serious life-changing and life-threatening injuries, particularly among young people, and the number of these types of accidents seems to be increasing.
According to the Alaskan Native Tribal Health Consortium, all-terrain vehicle or ATV accidents are on the rise in recent years. Statistics show that between 2012 and 2016, Alaska Native people alone accounted for 200 hospitalizations from TBI every year, about 20 percent of which were caused by snow machine, bicycle, and ATV accidents. Overall, Alaskan ATV accidents have increased significantly in the past two years, possibly due to the pandemic offering more opportunities and time for young people to use these recreational vehicles.
How can we combat this epidemic of ATV accidents and injuries? Experts offer a bit of insight into how to stay safe on an ATV.
- One of the best ways to prevent TBIs and SCIs from ATV accidents is simply to wear a helmet, according to the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services. The most devastating types of ATV accidents are usually those that involve the head and neck. Wearing a helmet can often prevent these types of injuries, or at least reduce their severity.
- Always supervise children when riding ATVs. Many tragic ATV accidents involve young children. Children should always be closely supervised when using any type of motorized vehicle, including ATVs, scooters, and motorized bikes. Adult supervision can go a long way toward preventing reckless or dangerous behavior that can lead to accidents.
- Get the proper training before using an ATV. Did you know that ATVs were not made to ride on paved or gravel roads, but instead were designed for off-roading? Do you know how to handle your ATV if you feel you are losing control? Should you ever double up and ride with two people on an ATV? Answers to these questions are part of the training offered to those who are new to ATVs. Don’t assume riding an ATV is like driving a car, or you may find that you have trouble avoiding an accident. Get the right training for your ATV so that you can operate it safely.
- Never ride impaired. Too many ATV accidents involve alcohol, either on the part of the ATV operator or another driver. Never drink and ride ATVs; it is too easy to make a mistake when you are impaired.
At Barber and Associates, we work with victims of ATV accidents to ensure that their medical bills, living expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering are compensated after an injury. We help people every day who have been hurt, as well as the families of those who have suffered a wrongful death, to stand up for their rights. Give us a call today and learn how we can help you recover damages for your ATV injury.