Geographic and temporal comparisons of ATV deaths in West Virginia, 2000-2008

During the 9-year period from 2000-2008, West Virginia experienced 301 deaths related to All-terrain Vehicles (ATVs). The distribution of ATV deaths across the top 20 counties in West Virginia accounted for nearly seventy percent of the ATV-related deaths during the 9-year study period. Time-of-day was a significant predictor of population-based rates, and a 34% decrease in the fatality rate from 2.94 in 2006 to 1.93 in 2008 occurred. We opine that the decline in ATV mortality is possibly due to better enforcement of the (WV Code Chapter 17F), mandatory ATV regulations passed by the West Virginia State Legislature in 2004. Improved safety vigilance and ATV operator adherence to manufacturers' safety guidelines may have also contributed to the decreasing incidence of ATV deaths. While the current downward trend is most welcome, more attention should be directed towards high-risk behaviors including alcohol and drug abuse and driving on paved surfaces.