Utility task vehicle crashes and injuries in Iowa.

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Traumatology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Utility task vehicles (UTVs) are gaining popularity, surpassing all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) in sales.
• There is a notable lack of published research on UTV crashes and associated injuries.
• This study aims to detail the epidemiology of UTV crashes and injuries in Iowa.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize the patterns and trends of UTV crashes in Iowa.
• To identify demographic and behavioral factors associated with UTV injuries.
• To analyze injury outcomes in relation to crash circumstances.

Main Methods:

• Data from Iowa's off-highway vehicle events, trauma registry, and news articles (2002-2019) were compiled.
• A comprehensive database of UTV crashes and injured individuals was created.
• Statistical analyses, including frequencies and contingency tables, were performed using SPSS.

Main Results:

• 448 individuals were injured in UTV crashes, with numbers increasing over time.
• Children under 16 constituted 31% of injured individuals; 69% of victims were male.
• Low helmet (10%) and seatbelt (32%) usage; 13% tested positive for alcohol; 61% of crashes occurred on public roads; 6% of victims died.
• Ejection occurred in nearly two-thirds of cases; 25% were pinned by the vehicle.
• Children were more likely to be passengers, involved in non-collision events, and pinned by the vehicle.
• Passengers had lower seatbelt use and higher involvement in non-collision events.
• Roadway crashes and ejection were linked to more severe outcomes, including head injuries and ICU admission.

Conclusions:

• UTV crashes and injuries are increasing and frequently result in severe trauma.
• Operating UTVs on public roads and being ejected from the vehicle are associated with worse injury outcomes.
• Public health interventions should address UTV safety, particularly for vulnerable populations and on public roadways.