Proposed Safety Measures for ATV Riders

Susy Owen

Attorney

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According to the state Division of Motor Vehicles, in 2006 fifty-four people died as a result of ATV crashes. Approximately one half of those incidents occurred off road. After such a high number of deaths last year, three bills have been introduced in the House of Delegates.

These bills would place safety restrictions on riders. Additionally, the bills would require owners to register the vehicles with the state. "The death rate has gotten way out of hand; to an unacceptable level," said Delegate Corey Palumbo, the lead sponsor of one of the safety bills. "I think for us to do nothing this year is unconscionable." Not only would the bills require helmets for all riders but they would also ban additional riders besides the driver. That is unless it is permitted by the manufacturer of the ATV.

Palumbo said he doesn't have a lot of hope for his bill's passage. He does hope it will at least get some discussions going. All three bills are pending in committees.