A Survey of Safety Recommendations for All-Terrain Vehicle Dealers and Track Owners in Kansas

Abstract

Introduction. All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are associated with injury,
mortality, and healthcare costs. ATV related injuries are less severe
when consistent safety practices are followed, however, ATV safety
regulations are varied among states. This study sought to survey
Kansas ATV dealers and track owners to determine safety promotion
practices.

Methods. A cross-sectional telephone survey was conducted of
Kansas ATV dealers and tracks. Survey questions included promotion
and sale of safety equipment, provision of ATV safety information,
and respondent characteristics.

Results. Of those contacted, 32% of dealers and 31% of tracks
responded to the survey. Most ATV dealers sell safety gear (70% -
100%) and all recommend safety gear to buyers and riders. All ATV
tracks reported requiring helmets (100%) but were varied regarding
other forms of safety gear. The majority of ATV dealers (77%) recommended
safety courses, but only 31% of dealers and 40% of tracks
offered courses. Eighty percent of ATV tracks and 52% of dealers felt
they had a professional responsibility to educate riders/owners on
safety.

Conclusions. Safety promotion by ATV dealers in Kansas consistently
was recommended, but often limited to the sales of safety gear
(helmets and gloves) or the provision of manufacturer provided safety
materials. Further, ATV dealers reported rarely offering skills tests or
safety courses to buyers. In Kansas, safety promotion at the point of
sale or track level could be improved to increase public awareness of
ATV safety practices. KS J Med 2017;10(4):76-78.