Jeffrey R Mewhirter Insurance Agency Inc

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Smart Risk Management for Your All-Terrain Vehicles

The US Department of Transportation reports that deaths of ATV riders have increased dramatically since 1982, the first year they were explicitly identified in governmental databases. The proportion of fatally injured ATV riders over age 40 increased from 9 percent in 1982 to 45 percent in 2022. Nearly 500 Americans were killed in 2022 due to ATV accidents.

The alarming increase in injuries and deaths from ATV usage is attributable not just to increased use but to the production of larger, faster, and more powerful ATVs. For example, one version of the Cam-Am ATV has 101 horsepower, a figure unheard of 5 years ago.

If you own or operate an ATV, you should advise your insurance agent accordingly to verify that you have proper liability coverage and limits in place. You should also work with an experienced attorney to craft a waiver for any guest who wishes to operate or ride on the ATV. If they do not wish to sign the waiver, no usage should be permitted.

In addition, the following safety tips should be followed.

Children should be allowed to operate only age-appropriate or "youth" ATVs. Most youth ATV-related deaths and injuries occur while operating "adult" ATVs. No child under age 7 should ever ride or operate an ATV.
Most ATVs are designed for only one person, so children should not take on passengers or be passengers on their parents' ATVs.
ATVs should not be driven on paved roads. ATVs, because of their design, are difficult to control on paved roads. Collisions with other vehicles on the road can prove fatal.
ATV operators should never drive an ATV without a helmet. Wearing a certified motorcycle helmet can dramatically decrease the chances of a head injury while operating an ATV. In addition, protective clothing (e.g., long-sleeved shirts, thick jeans, gloves, and over-the-ankle boots) can mitigate injuries from scrapes, bumps, and impacts.
ATVs should never be operated at night.
ATVs should be inspected before riding with an emphasis on proper maintenance.
ATVs should not be operated beyond the skill level of the driver. Trails should be chosen to match the operator's experience and ability.
All operators should complete a "hands-on" ATV training course. One class is estimated to be equal to 1 year of experience. Reputable ATV dealers often provide this class free of charge to their customers.

IRMI