Experts urge caution as injury data highlights OHV risks for youth
Off-highway vehicles (OHVs), including all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and utility terrain vehicles (UTVs), are widely used on farms and ranches. While these machines help with daily work, safety experts warn they can pose serious risks to young operators.
Recent injury statistics show that children continue to be injured in ATV-related incidents each year. Experts say the combination of vehicle weight, speed and limited safety features makes these machines particularly dangerous for inexperienced riders.
“While these vehicles are incredibly handy on the farm and ranch, their weight and power make them dangerous for youth operators,” said Angie Johnson, North Dakota State University Extension farm and ranch safety specialist.
ATVs can weigh more than 1,000 pounds and reach high speeds. Unlike passenger vehicles, many do not have protective structures or advanced safety systems. Rollovers, collisions, and loss of control are among the most common causes of injury. Head trauma, broken bones, and crushing injuries are frequent outcomes of serious accidents.
Safety professionals emphasize that physical size alone should not determine whether a child is ready to operate an OHV. Emotional maturity, decision-making ability, focus, and judgment are equally important factors. Young riders may not yet have the skills needed to react safely to changing terrain, traffic, or unexpected hazards.
Experts also caution against operating OHVs on paved roads because the vehicles are designed primarily for off-road conditions. Their tires and handling characteristics can make them unpredictable on hard surfaces.
Safety specialists encourage youth riders to take a certified ATV and OHV safety course before operating a vehicle. Certification programs can teach riders how to handle vehicles responsibly and understand important safety requirements. For training information and certification resources, click the OHV Safety Program.
“Their low tire pressure and tread design are designed specifically for off-road use, which can make them unpredictable on pavement,” said Del Peterson, a safety researcher with the Upper Great Plains Transportation Institute at NDSU.
Key safety recommendations include wearing a properly fitted helmet, eye protection, gloves, long pants, and sturdy footwear. Riders should also avoid carrying extra passengers unless the vehicle is specifically designed for them. Reading the operator's manual and following manufacturer guidelines can further reduce risks. Increasing vehicle visibility through lights, reflectors, and flags can also help prevent collisions.
As ATV and UTV use remains common in agriculture, experts say education, supervision and responsible operation are essential to protecting young riders and reducing preventable injuries.