ATVs, or all-terrain vehicles, can be extremely dangerous for both children and adults. They cause more than 700 deaths and 135,000 injuries every year, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, and about 1/3 of those deaths and injuries are to children under 16 years old.

First and foremost, the CPSC stresses that taking ATV driving and safety training courses are extremely important.  These courses teach riders how to operate ATVs, how to avoid risks, and how to prevent injury and death. These courses will also provide valuable safety tips, including to avoid carrying passengers, which can cause the ATV to operate incorrectly and the driver to lose concentration. Also, ATVs should never be operated on paved roads, where riders risk colliding with cars.
 
Next, the CPSC advises that ATV riders always wear protective gear such as long pants, long-sleeved shirts, goggles, boots, and gloves. This clothing protects against burns, strains, and in some cases, can provide extra padding to prevent broken bones and fractures. Most importantly, ATV riders should wear helmets in order to avoid head and brain injuries from falls and crashes.