Essential Steps for Safety After an ATV Accident

Jul 22, 2024

Expert Advice from ORNGE Paramedic Jonathan Lee

With the increase in outdoor activities during the warmer months, incidents involving all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) also rise, marking the period from May to September as "Trauma Season."

Ornge reports a 30 percent rise in ATV-related responses by Ornge between 2022 and 2023. We know, ATVs are used to get work done around the farm, as well as to have fun on the farm.

Jonathan Lee, a Critical Care Paramedic from ORNGE helicopter ambulance services, highlights essential steps to mitigate injuries after an ATV accident.

Initial Assessment and Injury Management

If you find yourself involved in an ATV accident, remain calm. Assess any injuries, focusing on Airway, Breathing, and Circulation (ABCs). Ensure the airway is clear, check for breathing, and control any severe bleeding. If alone and capable, evaluate yourself similarly.

Managing Injuries Before Help Arrives

Address bleeding by applying pressure or creating an improvised tourniquet. For suspected fractures, immobilize the limb to prevent further injury. If the injured person is unconscious, position them on their side to maintain a clear airway and prevent choking.

Efficient Communication with Emergency Services

When contacting emergency services, provide precise location details using GPS coordinates, trail markers, or landmarks. Stay on the call until instructed to hang up, ensuring you guide rescuers accurately to your location.

Safety and Prevention Tips

Preventive measures are crucial for ATV safety. Wear a helmet, adhere to designated trails, avoid impairment from drugs or alcohol, and maintain a safe speed suitable for your skill level. Remember, most ATV accidents are preventable with proper precautions.

Jonathan Lee emphasizes that preparedness and preventive practices are key to ensuring a safer ATV riding experience.

Understanding and implementing these steps can significantly reduce the likelihood and severity of injuries, making every ride a safer venture.

For Tips on ATV Safety, please read our article, ATV Safety Training Essential for the Farm - https://www.farms.com/ag-industry-news/atv-safety-training-essential-for-the-farm-828.aspx

Video: The All-New Kubota SVL110-3 in Action

Break New Grounds: Make short work of rugged bush, uneven ground, or a challenging job site. The new Kubota SVL110-3 is faster, stronger, and tougher than ever before thanks to increased horsepower and high-performance attachment capability. Key new features: Increased performance: It’s not just a new model. The SVL110-3 is equipped with a range of innovative new features that are designed to increase performance while maintaining operator ease and comfort. Easy maintenance and cleanouts: Save time and effort when doing maintenance: the cab can be tilted 72° without having to lift the arm, allowing easy access to the hydraulic pumps, valves, lines and hydraulic tank. The SVL110-3 has three clean outs on the bottom of the chassis and one on each side to clean out material from the loader arms area.