Let the record speak for three-wheel all-terrain vehicles

Abstract

Scope and Method of Study: On April 3, 1985, an all-terrain vehicle task force was established to review all-terrain vehicle accidents which had occurred since 1982, and to continue their research through 1986. Similar studies were undertaken among the medical community who were seeing an alarming increase in the number of patients, primarily children, being treated for injuries related to all-terrain vehicles. These studies yielded data including the number of deaths broken down by age, type of all-terrain vehicle, and cause of death, as well as number of reported injuries for the period from 1982 through 1986.

Findings and Conclusions: Three and four-wheeled all-terrain vehicles have become increasingly popular. Studies reveal that injury and death attributed to the ATV have also skyrocketed. Statistically, the three-wheel version has a much lower safety record than any form of off-road-vehicle. This is attributed to its three point isosceles triangular design, poor suspension, excess acceleration, and a high and rearward center of gravity. In spite of the design defects, the ATV industry has been accused of deceiving the public into believing the three-wheeler is safe. All ATV riders are at risk; however, the risk could be reduced through certain government regulations, operator training, and protective gear.