As I think about a recent news story in our area of a child that was killed in an ATV accident, my heart was heavy, WHY? I thought , as I heard the parents publicly denounce ATVs and the industry.( of course, the anti ATV / UTV lobbyists were right behind them on “such a travesty”).
I began to research what had happened. When I learned the facts, my heart sank. This could have been prevented.
Get to the point ? OK,  It turned out the pre-teen was operating the ATV (much too large for their size, and skill level)  in their own yard, and it had flipped over backwards on them. The child was not wearing a helmet, chest protector, boots, or any safety gear for that matter.
Parents I feel for your loss, however, it is not the ATV industry’s responsibility to stand sentinel over the parents to make sure they protect their children. I am a huge advocate of open riding anywhere, of kids riding ATVs , of fathers (or mothers)  and sons or daughters sharing the special times and places visited during a ride. I am also an advocate of proper safety equipment and training. not every death can be prevented by safety gear and common sense, but the unnecessary ones can be, without a doubt.
Here are a few basic rules to follow ; We call it TOERAIL:
1) TEACH your child proper operation of, and respect for,  the ATV they are riding.
2) OUTFIT your child in proper safety gear, Helmet (not a cheapo piece of tupperware), chest protector (recommend a full jacket style), shoulder, elbow, and knee pads, boots, gloves, and eye protection.
3) EDUCATE your child on the importance of proper gear and vehicle operation.
4) HELP your child get into, and out of, their gear. Have them get ready at the same time as you so you can help them, make it a game who can get their gear on properly first.
5) RULES, make it a rule, no gear NO ride. Set guidelines to follow when riding together, and make sure they are riding an ATV they are capable of handling. Supervise them and their capabilities, so you know what their limits are.
6) ACCEPT responsibility for you and your child, from taking time to get properly ready to being a respectful rider. (we have all seen the kids doing donuts 3 feet from our hauler in the staging areas).
7) INSPECT your gear every time before you even leave the house, and before every ride, and teach your child to do the same. Show them how to clean and care for their gear after the ride.
8) LEAD by example, DON’T ride without your gear. Treat your gear with respect. Be a respectful rider.
By following these basic suggestions, and using common sense, your family rides will be safer, less stressful, and much more fun.
Lets face it folks, nothing dampens a ride like a trip to the E.R.. Especially if it’s your child.
The decision is yours TOERAIL OR TOE TAG.