People love riding ATVs on dirt roads or through the mud in Maryland. While ATVs are popular, they’re still dangerous. The number of ATV accidents and fatalities has been growing. Highway patrol links the increase in ATV accidents and fatalities to unsafe practices.
ATV accidents and fatalities
A recent ATV accident saw a man hit a tree on a dirt road. The police revealed he wasn’t wearing a helmet or a seatbelt. In 2020, there were 50 ATV-related accidents, but there were at least 80 in 2021. The police acknowledged the recent victim wasn’t wearing a seatbelt, but the ATV had seatbelts. People should take safety measures seriously to try and prevent recreational vehicle accidents.
ATV safety measures
ATVs have many safety measures and devices that other vehicles require to be legally on the road. People can’t drink and drive while using an ATV, and drivers under 18 must wear a helmet. ATVs require seatbelts, and drivers need proof of insurance and a license. Adults aren’t required to wear helmets in ATVs, but highway patrol recommends them.
ATV safety issues
Alcohol issues add to the number of ATV accidents and fatalities every year. DUI laws apply to ATVs just like other vehicles. Many recreational vehicle accidents include consuming alcohol and driving recklessly. Adding to the fatalities is the lack of seatbelts and helmets worn by people in the ATVs. Highway patrol arrests multiple people for driving ATVs while intoxicated every summer.
Ride Royal Blue is a popular ATV resort that has rules and regulations their guests follow while riding ATVs. The regulations include having a license and proof of insurance, having no alcohol in the vehicle and staying on designated roads. ATV resorts and law enforcement agree that drivers can avoid accidents and fatalities by making better decisions. The highway patrol is looking for ways to reduce fatalities and prevent ATV accidents.