Understanding ATV safety ahead of summer

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

In the wake of a 17-year-old's death while riding a three-wheeled ATV, ABC 17 News looked into how to safely enjoy power sports as the weather starts to turn for the better.

New three wheeled ATV's were banned from sale in 1988, according to the National Institutes of Health, due to their high risk of injuries -- especially for children -- while operating.

According to traffic crash data on the Missouri State Highway Patrol's website, 56 people were involved in ATV crashes this past year, two of which died.

With weather warming up, people could be seen getting ready for a day of riding at Finger Lakes State Park, where riding trails as well as a race track is open for the public to use.

"You know, we're blessed to have the state park right up here where you can go ride legally, Capt. Brian Leer, of the Boone County Sheriff's, Office said. "A lot of people utilize that for the use of ATVs."

Leer said that many people still use ATVs throughout the county, whether it be for recreation or agriculture.

"Over the years, we've responded to some pretty bad crashes involving ATVs and UTVs," Leer said. "Several of them, the seriousness of the injuries, could have been reduced and or prevented with the use of proper safety devices."

Leer stressed that as a rider, you are operating machinery that has the potential to kill you.

"You know, wear boots not flip flops," Leer said. "We've seen people who may not be the right size for the ATV operating it, that's dangerous."

Leer said a lot of the time, injuries and accidents comes from people not having enough experience in riding.

MU Extension published safety tips for using ATVs.

A main pointed stressed with by Leer and MU Extension is the use of protective gear. According to the publication, the following protective gear should be worn every time you ride an ATV:

• Helmet
• Eye protection
• Gloves
• Boots
• Long sleeve shirts and pants

Leer wanted everyone to remember to operate these machines in a safe manner. This includes but isn't limited to not carrying more passengers then seats, riding to your own experience level and to always ride sober.