Off-road vehicles not safe for youngest Canadians, pediatric society says

The Canadian Paediatric Society is urging for stricter regulations and safety measures to protect children who ride off-road vehicles, such as all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and side-by-sides. According to the society, children and adolescents account for approximately one-third of off-road vehicle fatalities.

In a recent statement released by the society, it emphasized the need for federal, provincial, and territorial governments to regulate the use of off-road vehicles in a similar manner to cars. The proposed regulations would require drivers to be at least 16 years old and passengers to be at least 12 years old. Additionally, the society is advocating for the mandatory use of government-certified helmets, as research has shown that children and teens not wearing helmets are five times more likely to sustain severe head or neck injuries.

Off-road vehicles are specifically designed for use on dirt trails and in forested areas, not on hard-surface roads. The society highlighted the importance of recognizing the risks associated with off-road vehicle use, particularly for individuals under the age of 16 who may not have fully developed the necessary cognitive and developmental skills to operate these vehicles safely.

The society also called for industry stakeholders to refrain from marketing and selling off-road vehicles to adolescents under the age of 16 until safety modifications have been implemented and proven effective. Provinces and territories are encouraged to implement training courses and a graduated driver’s licensing system for off-road vehicles to enhance safety measures.

Pediatricians and primary-care providers have a critical role to play in educating families about the significant risks of severe injury and death associated with off-road vehicle use, even when using youth models. Traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, and crush-related trauma are identified as leading causes of death and disability in pediatric ATV crashes, with the severity of injuries often correlating with the size of the vehicle.

While off-road vehicles are commonly used in remote areas, on farms, and for Indigenous hunting and fishing purposes, it is essential for pediatric care providers to educate families on risk reduction strategies. This includes avoiding paved roads, wearing helmets at all times, and only riding as a passenger on vehicles designed for multiple occupants.

The Canadian Paediatric Society’s advocacy for improved regulations and safety measures for off-road vehicles underscores the importance of prioritizing child safety in recreational activities. By raising awareness and implementing stricter guidelines, the society aims to reduce the incidence of injuries and fatalities among children and adolescents who use off-road vehicles.