ATV Bill Clears the Senate

Susy Owen

Attorney

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On Wednesday a Senate panel advanced a bill that bans all-terrain vehicles from all roadways. Additionally, it bans the use of ATVs for use with more than one passenger unless the ATV has been designed for more than one. After studying ATV safety for months, lawmakers agreed that there was not enough done in 2004 to reduce the number of fatalities.

The records show that South Carolina had an all- time high in the number of ATV fatalities, 54 in all.

The current law allows ATVs to be used on public roads. Additionally, adults are allowed to carry other passengers and ride without helmets. Those loopholes go against ATV manufacturer recommendations, said Karen Coria, government relations specialist for the Specialty Vehicle Institute of America.
However, even some senators admit that it is unclear exactly which riding habits are causing the most fatal accidents. Many riders feel it is unfair since many accidents are alcohol related or due to misuse. The bill now goes to the Senate Judiciary Committee for discussion. Stay tuned for the outcome.