All-Terrain Vehicle Injuries at Arrowhead Regional Medical Center (Level II): Epidemiology, Risks, and Outcome

Abstract

The growing popularity of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) has contributed to a rise in the number of injuries and fatalities nationwide. The Consumer Product Safety Commission reported 8,104 fatalities from 1982 to 2006 and over 146,600 emergency room-treated visits in 2006 with children 16 years of age and younger comprising roughly 29 per cent in both categories. To investigate the epidemiology and outcome of ATV-related injuries and to explore variables contributing to morbidity and mortality, we conducted a single-center, retrospective study of ATV-injured patients presenting to trauma emergency between 2003 and 2007 at a Level II trauma center. In summary, we witnessed an upward trend in the incidence of ATV injuries during this 5-year span. With 156 documented cases, adolescents aged 17 to 20 years represented the largest group (19.2%), whereas children 16 years of age and younger contributed to 12.8 per cent. Overall mortality rate was 0.64 per cent. Positive blood alcohol concentration was detected in 21 per cent. Individuals using protective gear were 1.4 and four times less likely to suffer loss of consciousness and Glasgow Coma Scale score 8 or less, respectively, compared with those without protection. Abrasions, concussions, fractures, and other life-threatening solid organ injuries were documented in virtually every organ system. With such poor outcomes, we conclude that riding an ATV is an inherently dangerous activity. To minimize the burden of injury, riders are encouraged to develop competency through training courses, compliance with safety precautions, and modification of high-risk behaviors.

Prevention of all-terrain vehicle injuries: A systematic review from The Eastern Association for the Surgery of Trauma

“…There are limited studies examining the effects of non-helmet personal protective equipment on injury severity and none studying any possible effect independent of helmet use. [24, 41] There was one pediatric and one adult study including drivers and riders in both organized sport and recreational environments with contradictory results (Table 3).…”

“…[41] Thepyasuwan et al had similar findings in their adult evaluation of patients wearing protective gear and suggested that elbow, knee, and arm pads were unlikely to help protect from intra-abdominal injuries and spine fractures. [24]…”

Mount Isa Statement on Quad Bike Safety

“…There is a range of factors that have been shown to increase the risk of sustaining an injury, the severity of the injury and death associated with riding a quad. These include: excessive speed 10,11 , lack of helmet use 10,[12][13][14][15] , use of alcohol and/or drugs [10][11][12][14][15][16] , riding at night 10,11,17,18 , youth riding without adult supervision 17,18 , children on more powerful ATVs 18 , being self-taught 18 , riding with a passenger 18 , lack of safety equipment 19 , lack of riding experience 11,16 , being an older rider 20 , risk-taking behaviour 21 , and type of terrain being ridden on 22 .…”

A Survey of Safety Recommendations for All-Terrain Vehicle Dealers and Track Owners in Kansas

“…Many of these injuries could be prevented by using safety equipment such as helmets, gloves, boots, goggles, chest protectors, knee pads, and elbow pads. 9 Fatalities, injury severity scores and incidence of traumatic brain injury incidence decreased when riders wore helmets. 7 , 10 – 12 Keenan and Bratton 13 compared injuries between Pennsylvania (helmet law and road restrictions) to North Carolina (no restrictions) and observed that restrictions were associated with decreased ATV related injuries.…”