Safety factors related to all-terrain vehicle injuries in children

All-terrain vehicle (ATV)-related injuries are a significant source of pediatric trauma. We hypothesized that these injuries are caused by poor safety behavior. To test this hypothesis, we surveyed both injured and uninjured ATV riders.

A prospective convenience sample-based survey was initiated at Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, a Level I pediatric trauma center. Patients with an ATV-related injury were asked to complete the survey for the study group (INJ), while uninjured pediatric ATV-riders completed the survey for the control group (UnINJ). The Fisher's exact probability test was used for data analysis.

There were 38 surveys completed for INJ and 11 for UnINJ. Both groups had similar demographics. ATVs in both groups were mostly used for recreation, and most of the INJ patients were in a rural setting. Half of the ATVs were purchased second hand, and less than half were purchased from a dealer. Most dealers reviewed age recommendations for ATV use; however, many safety recommendations were not followed. INJ group had a higher percentage of children riding inappropriately sized ATVs and a lower rate of helmet use when compared with UnINJ group. In addition, there were a significant number of regulatory violations in the INJ group, including nine children (24%) riding as passengers and 5 (13%) driving on a road.

These data suggest that there may be decreased safety behavior among injured pediatric ATV-riders; however, uninjured riders also demonstrate poor safety habits. The study showed that dealers do review safety regulations with consumers; however, most of the ATVs are not purchased through dealers. Therefore, we may need to shift our safety and educational focus to reach these families.

Prognostic/epidemiologic study, level III.