ATVs and the Fourth of July Weekend

The ATV Safety Institute Wants You to Be Safe, Not a Statistic

IRVINE, CA – June 30, 2011 – (Motor Sports Newswire) -  The ATV Safety Institute wants every Fourth of July weekend ride to end with good memories and, to ensure that happens, enthusiasts need to abide by eight Golden Rules. The fact is that Consumer Product Safety Commission statistics show that 92 percent of all ATV-related fatalities stem from dangerous behavior.

The ASI’s eight Golden Rules outline the right way to ride:

1. Always wear a DOT-compliant helmet, goggles, long sleeves, long pants, over-the-ankle boots, and gloves.
2. Never ride on paved roads except to cross when done safely and permitted by law. ATVs are designed to be operated off-highway.
3. Never ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
4. Never carry a passenger on a single-rider ATV, and no more than one passenger on an ATV specifically designed for two people.
5. Ride an ATV that’s right for your age.
6. Always supervise riders younger than 16. ATVs are not toys.
7. Ride only on designated trails and at a safe speed.
8. Take a hands-on ATV RiderCourse and the free online E-Course. Visit ATVSafety.org or call 800.887.2887.

Tragically, nearly 90 percent of youth ATV-related injuries happen when a child is on board an adult-sized ATV, instead of one of the many readily available youth models.

“The Fourth of July weekend should mark our nation’s founding and be a long weekend for Americans to enjoy themselves, not an anniversary forever remembered for a hospital visit,” said Tim Buche, president of the Specialty Vehicle Institute of America. “Riding ATVs can be just as much fun as anything you’ll do this weekend, as long as you make the right choices and stay safe. We’re also mindful that friends with ATVs might be getting together with friends who have never ridden, but this isn’t the time to jump on and just give it a try. The only first ride anyone should ever take is through the ASI’s ATV RiderCourse and there is no reason not to take it.”

The half-day, hands-on course is free for buyers of new ATVs from ASI member-companies. Most major manufacturers pay an incentive to take the course, in the form of cash or merchandise certificates valued at $100. To enroll in an ATV RiderCourseSM, visit http://www.atvsafety.org. The incentives are designed to encourage participation but the free training is a lifelong offer and available to all family members.

Besides practicing safe riding skills on an actual riding range, riders can virtually brush up on ATV safety principles with the ASI’s E-Course. There are three age-specific e-learning courses to choose from: adults, teens, and children. The courses include videos and interactive games to make them fun and effective learning experiences for all age groups.

The All-Terrain Vehicle Safety Institute® develops rider training programs and promotes the safe and responsible use of ATVs. The ASI® works to reduce crashes and injuries resulting from improper ATV use. Formed in 1988, the ASI is a not-for-profit division of the Specialty Vehicle Institute of America®. For safety information or to enroll in the ATV RiderCourseSM nearest you, visit www.atvsafety.org or call (800) 887-2887.

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Calling all Creative Kids to Enter the “Do the Ride Thing” Video Contest – $10,000 in Prizes!

Kids Helping Kids Ride Safe/Ride Smart

IRVINE, CA – June 1, 2010 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – With the busy summer riding season upon us, the ATV Safety Institute (ASI) encourages kids to enter the “Do the Ride Thing” Video Contest. Sponsored by the ASI, the contest, in its second year, runs June 1 to September 6, 2011 and offers 10 prizes totaling $10,000. Students ages six to 18 may enter. The winning 30- and 60-second videos will be used as public service announcements (PSAs) by the ATV Safety Institute.

“What better way to motivate and inform people – especially kids and their parents – about the safe and responsible use of all-terrain vehicles than to have kids create videos that highlight one or more of the ATV Safety Institute’s Golden Rules?” said Paul Vitrano, executive vice president, ASI. “By harnessing the social networking power of YouTube, it gives kids the opportunity to ‘Do the Ride Thing’ and help other kids ride safe/ride smart.”

To enter, kids create a 30- or 60-second video/PSA, upload it to YouTube, and submit an entry form on the ASI website. For official video content requirements, contest rules and entry forms, visit http://www.atvsafety.org/ATV_PSA_Contest/.

Last year’s winning video

There will be three winners in each of the three age categories: 6-10, 11-14, and 15-18. 1st Place winners earn $1,100, 2nd Place is $800, and 3rd Place is $600. Plus, all age categories are eligible to win the $2,500 Grand Prize. The ten prizes total $10,000.

Background
There are nearly ten million ATVs in use across the United States, being operated by more than 35 million Americans. Many ATV owners share their ATVs so it is essential that riders and non-riders alike understand the importance of the safe and responsible use of ATVs.

Summer and holidays are a time when children have more free time to enjoy many activities, including riding ATVs. Nearly 90 percent of youth ATV-related injury incidents occur when a youth is operating an ATV manufactured and intended for use by an adult.  Parental supervision is a key element to a child’s safety and children under the age of 16 must be supervised at all times when operating an ATV. Parents literally hold the key to their children’s safety. Every ATV has an ignition key, and when a parent or guardian controls the key, they control the use.

Consumer Product Safety Commission data show that 92 percent of all ATV-related fatalities are the result of warned-against behaviors. The ATV Safety Institute has eight Golden Rules of ATV safety that address these behaviors and apply to all riders.

The ATV Safety Institute’s Golden Rules

1. Always wear a DOT-compliant helmet, goggles, long sleeves, long pants, over-the-ankle boots, and gloves.
2. Never ride on paved roads except to cross when done safely and permitted by law – another vehicle could hit you. ATVs are designed to be operated off-highway.
3. Never ride under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.
4. Never carry a passenger on a single-rider ATV, and no more than one passenger on an ATV specifically designed for two people.
5. Ride an ATV that’s right for your age.
6. Supervise riders younger than 16; ATVs are not toys.
7. Ride only on designated trails and at a safe speed.
8. Take a hands-on ATV RiderCourseSM and the free online E-Course. Visit ATVsafety.org or call 800.887.2887.

The All-Terrain Vehicle Safety Institute® develops rider training programs and promotes the safe and responsible use of ATVs. The ASI works to reduce crashes and injuries resulting from improper ATV use. Formed in 1988, the ASI is a not-for-profit division of the Specialty Vehicle Institute of America®. For safety information or to enroll in the ATV RiderCourseSM nearest you, visit www.atvsafety.org or call (800) 887-2887.

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New Consumer Product Safety Commission Report Reveals Decline in ATV Deaths and Injuries

Industry Remains Committed to National Safety and Training Programs

IRVINE, CA – December 20, 2010 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – All-terrain vehicle injuries involving youth under age 16 have declined a statistically significant 14 percent according to a report released today by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (“CPSC 2009 Annual Report of ATV Deaths and Injuries”). According to the CPSC, total ATV-related injuries in 2009 decreased 2.4 percent from 2008. The report also estimates the third consecutive decline in the total number of deaths in the three years 2006 through 2008 (2009 data collection is ongoing), a 16% decrease over that period.

The CPSC also reported that the risk of injury per 10,000 four-wheel ATVs in use declined by five percent from 2008 to 2009. This is the eighth straight year that injury risk for ATV riders has decreased – a downward trend that the CPSC also describes as statistically significant – and it is now lower than at any time since CPSC began calculating this injury risk in 1985. Four-wheel ATVs have become increasingly popular with the number of vehicles in use more than tripling since 1998 to over 10.5 million.

“The commitment of the member companies of the ATV Safety Institute (ASI) to rider education, parental supervision, and state legislation is reflected in the continued decline of ATV injuries and fatalities as reported by the CPSC,” said Paul Vitrano, executive vice president, ASI. “Since 1984, the major manufacturers and distributors of ATVs in the United States have worked closely with the CPSC to implement ongoing safety initiatives.”

In 2009, the industry’s voluntary ANSI/SVIA standard was made mandatory as a result of federal legislation. The legislation requires all ATV manufacturers and distributors, regardless of where the product is manufactured (imported or U.S.), to adhere to the same safety standards and training programs established and followed by the ASI member companies for more than two decades. This includes newer companies in the U.S. market that had previously elected not to participate in safety programs developed by established manufacturers and in some cases targeted inappropriate models to youth riders. Under the legislation, all ATV manufacturers now must certify that their products conform to the mandatory standards, and file safety action plans with the CPSC.

“CPSC studies have found that approximately 90 percent of injuries to youth under 16 occur on adult-sized ATVs,” said Vitrano. “We will be redoubling our efforts in the new Congress to enact legislation as soon as possible to end the effective ban on the sale of youth model ATVs and motorcycles.”

The ATV industry is committed to the safety of its customers and will continue to promote and enhance its multi-tiered efforts to increase awareness of the proper operation and use of ATVs. Unfortunately, more than 92% of ATV-related fatalities involve one or more behaviors that the industry strongly and visibly warns against in its rider education programs, in all its literature, and on the vehicles themselves.

To that end we urge all ATV enthusiasts and their families to follow the ATV Safety Institute’s Golden Rules:

1. Always wear a DOT-compliant helmet, goggles, long sleeves, long pants, over-the-ankle boots, and gloves.
2. Never ride on paved roads except to cross when done safely and permitted by law – another vehicle could hit you. ATVs are designed to be operated off-highway.
3. Never ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
4. Never carry a passenger on a single-rider ATV, and no more than one passenger on an ATV specifically designed for two people.
5. Ride an ATV that’s right for your age.
6. Supervise riders younger than 16; ATVs are not toys.
7. Ride only on designated trails and at a safe speed.
8. Take a hands-on ATV RiderCourseSM; and the free online E-Course. Visit atvsafety.org or call 800.887.2887.

The All-Terrain Vehicle Safety Institute® develops rider training programs and promotes the safe and responsible use of ATVs. The ASI works to reduce crashes and injuries resulting from improper ATV use. Formed in 1988, the ASI is a not-for-profit division of the Specialty Vehicle Institute of America®. For safety information or to enroll in the ATV RiderCourseSM nearest you, visit www.atvsafety.org or call (800) 887-2887.

SOURCE: ATV Safety Institute

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ATV Safety Institute Selects Winners of “Do the Ride Thing” Video Contest

IRVINE, CA – September 21, 2010 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – Creative, cash winning kids from coast to coast are getting their videos on safe and responsible ATV riding posted online as public service announcements by the ATV Safety Institute.

An ASI judging panel selected the winners among dozens of entries from young enthusiasts nationwide, all aiming to highlight the association’s “Golden Rules” of ATV Safety.

Bobby Burns of Getzville, New York, won the grand prize of $2,500, while his younger brother Nathan won the $1,100 first place prize in the age 6-10 category.

“This is the first video contest I’ve ever won so it’s like crazy awesome!” said Bobby Burns, age 13. “I thought protective gear was the most important message to tell kids, and also to not drive on public roads.”

The ASI chose winners in three age categories, along with the grand prize winner, whose video can be viewed on YouTube here (http://tiny.cc/6etbl).

“ASI encourages all kids to follow the Golden Rules of ATV safety, but that message can have a much greater impact when spoken by another kid,” said Paul Vitrano, executive vice president, ASI. “The ‘Do The Ride Thing’ contest allows us to draw attention to safe ATV practices and teach young riders and their parents how important it is to always ride safe/ride smart.”

The ASI’s “Do the Ride Thing” Video Contest winners for the summer of 2010 are:

Grand Prize

• $2,500 Grand Prize Winner – Bobby Burns of Getzville, New York. See Bobby’s video here.

Ages 6-10

• $1,100 First Place Winner – Nathan Burns of Getzville, New York. See Nathan’s video here.

Ages 11-14

• $1,100 First Place Winner – Devin Williams and Hunter Tucker of Crossville, Alabama. See Devin & Hunter’s video here.
• $800 Second Place Winner – Caleb McDowel of Marion, South Carolina.

Ages 15-18

• $1,100 First Place Winner – Tori Winslow and Timmy Winslow of Elk Grove, California. See Tori & Tim’s video here.
• $800 Second Place Winner – Michaela Jade Poore and Brett George of Crossville, Alabama.
• $600 Third Place Winner – Tiffany Bruce, Avery Ross and Jon Surrett of Crossville, Alabama.

The ASI designed the contest (which ran from June 18 to Sept. 6) to inform and motivate kids and their parents on the responsible use of ATV riding while spreading the message to other young riders. Every entry took a unique approach to demonstrate safe riding practices, but each video highlighted one or more of the ASI Golden Rules to ATV Safety:

The ATV Safety Institute’s Golden Rules

1. Always wear a DOT-compliant helmet, goggles, long sleeves, long pants, over-the-ankle boots, and gloves.
2. Never ride on paved roads except to cross when done safely and permitted by law – another vehicle could hit you. ATVs are designed to be operated off-highway.
3. Never ride under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.
4. Never carry a passenger on a single-rider ATV, and no more than one passenger on an ATV designed for two people.
5. Ride an ATV that’s right for your age.
6. Supervise riders younger than 16; ATVs are not toys.
7. Ride only on designated trails and at a safe speed.
8. Take a hands-on ATV RiderCourse and the free online E-Course. Visit ATVSafety.org or call 800.887.2887.

Background
There are nearly ten million ATVs in use across the United States, being operated by more than 35 million Americans. Many ATV owners share their ATVs so it is essential that riders and non-riders alike understand the importance of the safe and responsible use of ATVs.

Summer and holidays are a time when children have more free time to enjoy many activities, including riding ATVs. Nearly 90 percent of youth ATV-related injury incidents occur when a youth is operating an ATV manufactured and intended for use by an adult.  Parental supervision is a key element to a child’s safety and children under the age of 16 must be supervised at all times when operating an ATV. Parents literally hold the key to their children’s safety. Every ATV has an ignition key, and when a parent or guardian controls the key, they control the use.

The All-Terrain Vehicle Safety Institute® develops rider training programs and promotes the safe and responsible use of ATVs. The ASI works to reduce crashes and injuries resulting from improper ATV use. Formed in 1988, the ASI is a not-for-profit division of the Specialty Vehicle Institute of America®. For safety information or to enroll in the ATV RiderCourseSM nearest you, visit www.atvsafety.org or call (800) 887-2887.

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Creative Kids Enter the “Do the Ride Thing” Video Contest and Win $10,000 in Prizes

Still Time for Kids to Create Their Own Summer Blockbuster

IRVINE, CA – August 6, 2010 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – There’s only one month left for kids to enter the ATV Safety Institute’s “Do the Ride Thing” Video Contest, to help spread the important Ride Safe/Ride Smart message to other kids and compete for a $2,500 grand prize.

The contest is open to kids ages 6 to 18, and winning videos will be considered for use as an ASI Public Service Announcement (PSA). All entries, 30 or 60 seconds in length, should be submitted via YouTube as video responses to the contest announcement video. There is a total of $10,000 in prize money, with three winners in each of three age categories: 6-10, 11-14 and 15-18. All age categories are eligible to win the $2,500 grand prize. Official video content requirements, contest rules and entry forms are available at http://www.atvsafety.org/ATV_PSA_Contest/index.html.

“Summer isn’t over yet. Kids who want to show how important it is to have fun and ride responsibly still have the opportunity to use their ATVs and cameras to Do the Ride Thing,” said Paul Vitrano, executive vice president, ASI. “As kids will prepare to return to school in upcoming weeks, entering our contest is a great way to wrap up a fun-filled summer of riding.”

Each video submission should highlight at least one of the ATV Safety Institute’s eight Golden Rules of ATV safety, which address warned-against behaviors and apply to all riders.

The ATV Safety Institute’s Golden Rules

1. Always wear a helmet and other protective gear.
2. Never ride on public roads — another vehicle could hit you.
3. Never ride under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.
4. Never carry a passenger on a single-rider vehicle, nor more than an operator and passenger on an ATV designed for two persons.
5. Ride an ATV that’s right for your age.
6. Supervise riders younger than 16; ATVs are not toys.
7. Ride only on designated trails and at a safe speed.
8. Take an ATV RiderCourse; call toll-free at 800.887.2887, or go to www.atvsafety.org to sign up or try the new free online e-course.

Background
There are nearly ten million ATVs in use across the United States, being operated by more than 35 million Americans. Since many ATV owners share their ATVs, it is essential that both experienced and new riders understand the importance of safe and responsible use of ATVs.

This is especially crucial during the summer and holidays, when children have more free time to ride. Nearly 90 percent of youth ATV-related injury incidents occur when a youth is operating an ATV manufactured and intended for use by an adult. Parental supervision is a key element to a child’s safety, and children under the age of 16 must be supervised at all times when operating an ATV. Parents literally hold the key to their children’s safety: Every ATV has an ignition key, and when a parent or guardian controls the key, they control the use.

The All-Terrain Vehicle Safety Institute® develops rider training programs and promotes the safe and responsible use of ATVs. The ASI works to reduce crashes and injuries resulting from improper ATV use. Formed in 1988, the ASI is a not-for-profit division of the Specialty Vehicle Institute of America®. For safety information or to enroll in the ATV RiderCourseSM nearest you, visit www.atvsafety.org or call (800) 887-2887

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