Injuries Associated with All-Terrain Vehicles: A New Epidemic

The use of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) has resulted in significant morbidity and mortality in the pediatric population. In 1987, the American Academy of Pediatrics published a policy on the use of motorized cycles and ATVs by children, recommending prohibition of use in children younger than 16 years and universal helmet use. Nonetheless, children continue to sustain a large number of preventable injuries related to ATV use. In fact, ATV operators under the age of 16 years are more likely than older persons to sustain an injury and require an emergency department visit. Unfortunately, regulations that address limitations for the operation of ATVs vary widely in the United States, particularly regarding their use in the pediatric population.

Keywords: all-terrain vehicles, ATV-related injuries, helmet use, trauma