The Cowboy’s New Horse: ATV Safety in our Brave New World

It is said that the West was won on the back of the horse. For generations, horses have been the primary method of transportation for pulling equipment, inspecting crops, and a hundred other tasks. However, with the introduction of the internal combustion engine capable of producing more output with less input, horses have faded into the background in favor of machines, vehicles and, more recently, ATVs.

ATVs, or All-Terrain Vehicles, are small utility vehicles often used to check fences, inspect cattle, or even apply fertilizer. These small, versatile vehicles are favored for their efficiency, convenience, and their ability to maneuver tight spaces. However, the delicate handling of these machines, paired with the lack of safety features common to other vehicles, such as airbags and seatbelts, increases the risk of injury to operators.

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, an estimated 2,400 fatalities occurred between 2018 and 2020 due to incidents involving an ATV or similar vehicle. The most common safety concern with ATVs is loss of control, often resulting in rollovers and passengers being thrown from the vehicle. One of the most valuable ways to mitigate serious injury in the event of an ATV incident is to wear appropriate and properly fitting personal protective equipment (PPE).

Arguably the most important piece of PPE is a quality helmet. Helmets are vital for preventing head injury by absorbing impact energy and withstanding blows from sharp objects. Helmets should fit snugly on your head without being too tight. Bicycling helmets should be avoided, as they provide little protection. Instead, look for a helmet that has been safety tested by the Department of Transportation or similar agency. Additionally, ATV operators should wear well-fitting pants and long-sleeved shirts to protect against flying debris, brushes with foliage and the elements. Avoid loose-fitting clothing, as it increases the risk of catching on low branches which can pull drivers from the vehicle. Finally, wear gloves and closed-toed boots with non-skin soles to protect the hands and feet and increase traction at points of contact with the ATV.

While ATVs can pose serious safety risks, the impact they have on the agricultural industry justifies their use for many producers and a few basic PPE items, such a helmet, full-coverage clothing, gloves and boots can help reduce the risk of injury.

Monthly Blast written by the 2024 CASH Intern, Carolyne Savage.