Whether it be for work or recreational purposes, all-terrain vehicles (ATV) have allowed people to go where automobiles just can't go. The widespread use of ATV's by children has spurred a 25 percent jump over three years in the number of ATV injuries involving kids. A new study suggests that prohibiting ATV passengers and implementing helmet use may prevent the severity of head and neck related injuries especially in children. The majority of the children were between the ages of 12 and 16 and in 74 percent of the cases, the child was the driver of the ATV. "Many children below a certain size don't have the motor skills and the ability to maneuver an ATV," warned study author Ruth A. Shults, a senior epidemiologist at the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta.

ATV-related accidents involving children remain significant public health issues that could be prevented. A multi-faceted approach to addressing the issue will be necessary to reduce these injuries and deaths. This may involve state and federal government agencies, health providers, and ATV manufacturers. The responsibility ultimately belongs to those who choose to operate ATVs or permit their usage, so educating adults, parents, and children represents a necessary first step in promoting this responsibility.