ATV Safety Institute Encourages Responsible Riding While Enjoying Memorial Day Weekend

Upcoming Holiday Weekend an Ideal Time for ASI Safety Courses

IRVINE, CA – May 23, 2013 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – As more than 35 million ATV enthusiasts take to the trails this Memorial Day weekend, the ATV Safety Institute and the major manufacturers and distributors of ATVs encourage everyone to ride safely and responsibly. The ASI estimates that nearly 11 million ATVs will be ridden over the long holiday weekend, and urges enthusiasts to minimize their risk and increase their fun factor by taking the ASI’s hands-on ATV RiderCourse and interactive E-Course. Both are designed to help enthusiasts better understand how to safely operate their ATVs.

“Now that the summer riding season is upon us, enthusiasts everywhere can brush up on safety tips with the ASI’s half-day, hands-on ATV RiderCourse,” said Tim Buche, president and CEO of the ATV Safety Institute. “It’s free if you’ve purchased a new, qualifying ATV from an ASI member-company and most major ATV manufacturers offer incentives for completing the course in the form of cash or gift cards worth up to $100. ASI encourages all enthusiasts to be safety-conscious whenever they ride, but especially on a busy holiday weekend like Memorial Day.”

To find an ATV RiderCourse near you and enroll, visit http://www.atvsafety.org. In addition to learning safe riding skills on the range, riders can also brush up on ATV safety principles online with the ATV E-Course, also available at http://www.atvsafety.org. Three age-specific online courses are available: one for adults, another for teens, and one specifically aimed at children. All the courses include videos and interactive games to make them fun and effective learning experiences for every age group.

According to data from the Consumer Product Safety Commission, 92 percent of all ATV-related fatalities are the result of warned-against behaviors, such as youths riding adult-sized ATVs. Therefore, the ASI strongly recommends that all ATV riders follow the warning labels on each vehicle. Finally, all ATV enthusiasts, no matter their age or experience level, can further minimize their risk by simply adhering to the ASI’s Eight Golden Rules of ATV Safety:

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. Call toll-free at (800) 887-2887 or go to www.atvsafety.org to register.

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.

The Specialty Vehicle Institute of America® promotes the safe and responsible use of all-terrain vehicles through rider training, public awareness campaigns and state legislation. Additionally, the SVIA® works to preserve access to off-road lands and expand riding opportunities. The SVIA is a resource for ATV research, statistics and vehicle standards. Accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), the SVIA develops standards for the equipment, configuration and performance requirements of ATVs.

Based in Irvine, Calif., the SVIA is a not-for-profit industry association sponsored by Arctic Cat, BRP, Honda, Kawasaki, KYMCO, Polaris, Suzuki, and Yamaha. Visit the SVIA online at www.svia.org. 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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Specialty Vehicle Institute of America Board of Trustees Re-elects Officers for 2013

IRVINE, CA – April 3, 2013 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – The Specialty Vehicle Institute of America’s Board of Trustees re-elected its officers, including Chair Gary Higgins, senior manager, national service operations, motorcycle division at American Honda Motor Co.; Vice Chair Ken Bush, regulations manager at American Suzuki Motor Corp.; Secretary/Treasurer Russ Brenan, senior advisor of government relations and public affairs at Kawasaki Motors Corp.; and SVIA President Tim Buche.

“I appreciate the confidence from all the returning members and officers,” said Higgins, who begins his fourth term as SVIA chair in 2013. “I look forward to helping lead and moderate positive discussion at SVIA and ATV Safety Institute board meetings. As we continue to maintain the highest-quality ATV safety programs and education, I’m confident that we’ll have additional opportunities to share efficiencies, lessons and outlook in the coming year.”

Like its officers, the remainder of the SVIA board continues from the previous year and includes trustees Isabelle Bouchard (BRP), Mike Martinez (Yamaha), Jan Rintamaki (Polaris) and Ron Solberg (Arctic Cat). SVIA was incorporated in 1983 to foster and promote the safe and responsible use of specialty vehicles in the U.S.

The Specialty Vehicle Institute of America® promotes the safe and responsible use of all-terrain vehicles through rider training, public awareness campaigns and state legislation. Additionally, the SVIA® works to preserve access to off-road lands and expand riding opportunities. The SVIA is a resource for ATV research, statistics and vehicle standards. Accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), the SVIA develops standards for the equipment, configuration and performance requirements of ATVs.

Based in Irvine, Calif., the SVIA is a not-for-profit industry association sponsored by Arctic Cat, BRP, Honda, Kawasaki, KYMCO, Polaris, Suzuki and Yamaha. Visit the SVIA online at www.svia.org. 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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ATV Safety Institute Encourages Enthusiasts to Work Hard, Have Fun and Always be Safe

ASI Continues to Support Responsible Riding as Labor Day Approaches

IRVINE, CA -August 29, 2012 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – As the Labor Day weekend nears, ATV enthusiasts all over the country are gearing up to trade their pavement-bound daily commuter for their favorite off-highway vehicle to take advantage of the three-day weekend. The ATV Safety Institute, along with the nation’s major ATV manufacturers and distributors, urges the 35 million riders currently operating more than 10 million ATVs across the U.S. to ride safely and responsibly this weekend and every weekend.

“Labor Day weekend represents the heart of the riding season for millions of ATV enthusiasts,” said ASI Vice President Tom Yager. “The upcoming three-day weekend will see ATV riders all over the country taking to the trails and dunes, and enjoying the great outdoors. ASI urges all ATV enthusiasts to put safety first and ride responsibly. ASI offers many easy ways for riders to learn about ATV safety, from safety tips and practice guides to the online E-Course and the hands-on ATV RiderCourseSM.”

Taking the ATV RiderCourse is free for anyone who has purchased a new, qualifying ATV from an ASI member company. Most of the major ATV manufacturers also offer incentives in the form of cash or merchandise certificates for completing the course.

To find an ATV RiderCourse and enroll, visit atvsafety.org or call 800-887-2887. In addition to learning safe riding skills on the range, riders can also enhance their knowledge of ATV safety principles online with the ATV E-Course, also available at atvsafety.org. Three age-specific online courses are available: one for adults, one for teens, and one specifically for children. All the courses include videos and interactive games to make them fun and effective learning experiences for every age group.

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission data show that 92 percent of all ATV-related fatalities are the result of warned-against behaviors such as youth riding adult-size ATVs, riding too fast, not wearing proper gear and riding under the influence. ASI urges everyone to follow the eight Golden Rules of ATV safety that address these behaviors and apply to all riders:

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 an ATV RiderCourse: call toll-free at (800) 887-2887 or go to atvsafety.org to register or take the online E-Course.

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.

The Specialty Vehicle Institute of America® promotes the safe and responsible use of all-terrain vehicles through rider training, public awareness campaigns and state legislation. Additionally, the SVIA® works to preserve access to off-road lands and expand riding opportunities. The SVIA is a resource for ATV research, statistics and vehicle standards. Accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), the SVIA develops standards for the equipment, configuration and performance requirements of ATVs.

Based in Irvine, Calif., the SVIA is a not-for-profit industry association sponsored by Arctic Cat, BRP, Honda, Kawasaki, KYMCO, Polaris, Suzuki, and Yamaha. Visit the SVIA online at http://www.svia.org. 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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Motorcycle Industry Council & Associations Participate in Study Showing Outdoor Recreation to be $646 Billion Industry Nationwide

IRVINE, CA – June 14, 2012 – (Motor Sports Newswire) -  The Motorcycle Industry Council, along with the Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Association and Specialty Vehicle Institute of America, collaborated with the Western Governors’ Association and other outdoor industry groups to fund a report on the combined economic impact of motorized and non-motorized outdoor recreation. The findings of this first-of-a kind study show the outdoor recreation industry generated $646 billion in national sales and services in 2011.

The joint study was released over the weekend at the WGA Annual Meeting in Cle Elum, Wash., and documents the continued growth and significance of outdoor recreation to the economies of the Western states and the nation overall. Representing the MIC, ROHVA and SVIA, Polaris Industries President and COO Bennett Morgan participated in the meeting’s opening session. He joined WGA chair Governor Christine Gregoire (Washington) and vice-chair Governor Gary Herbert (Utah), as well as the CEOs of REI and Brunswick, in a panel discussion on the breadth and importance of the recreation industry to the West. The panelists also discussed how state and local governments can help grow the outdoor recreation economy.

“The big news is that the direct economic impact of outdoor recreation was worth $646 billion in 2011, generating more dollars than other vast industries like pharmaceuticals and motor vehicles and related parts,” said Morgan. “The MIC, the SVIA, and ROHVA were pleased to invest in the research that helped make this study possible. Now that the initial results of the study are out, it’s time to put down the pencils and calculators and take advantage of the great outdoors and have some fun.”

According to the WGA, the organization saw a need for an economic impact report documenting the income, tax revenue and number of jobs created by outdoor recreation. As a result, it reached out to the MIC, SVIA and ROHVA to collaborate with WGA and the Outdoor Industry Association to add motorized recreation to an already in-process, non-motorized outdoor recreation study being done by OIA.

“The MIC has long known the enormous economic benefit that motorized recreation contributes to the U.S. economy,” said ROHVA Executive Vice President Paul Vitrano. “But to have these numbers available to validate this will be of extreme value. We are particularly pleased that we could partner with the non-motorized community and WGA to produce comprehensive data on the contribution that the entire recreation community provides to the U.S. and state economies, and we look forward to continuing this cooperative effort.”

The full report released at the WGA meeting is titled “A Snapshot of The Economic Impact of Outdoor Recreation,” and can be found on the WGA Web site at www.westgov.org/reports.

According to MIC Senior Vice President, Government Relations, Kathy Van Kleeck, the MIC will soon release information specific to the motorized recreation sector, and the WGA and the outdoor recreation industry partners will release state-by-state data later in the year. “The state-by-state information will be particularly useful in our government relations efforts to promote motorized recreation and advocate for off-highway vehicle opportunities,” said Van Kleeck.

The Motorcycle Industry Council exists to preserve, protect and promote motorcycling through government relations, communications and media relations, statistics and research, aftermarket programs, development of data communications standards, and activities surrounding technical and regulatory issues. As a not-for-profit, national industry association, the MIC seeks to support motorcyclists by representing manufacturers and distributors of motorcycles, scooters, motorcycle/ATV/ROV parts and accessories, and members of allied trades such as insurance, finance and investment companies, media companies and consultants.

The MIC is headquartered in Irvine, Calif., with a government relations office in metropolitan Washington, D.C. First called the MIC in 1970, the organization has been in operation since 1914. Visit the MIC at www.mic.org

The Specialty Vehicle Institute of America® promotes the safe and responsible use of all-terrain vehicles through rider training, public awareness campaigns and state legislation. Additionally, the SVIA® works to preserve access to off-road lands and expand riding opportunities. The SVIA is a resource for ATV research, statistics and vehicle standards. Accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), the SVIA develops standards for the equipment, configuration and performance requirements of ATVs. Based in Irvine, Calif., the SVIA is a not-for-profit industry association sponsored by Arctic Cat, BRP, Honda, Kawasaki, KYMCO, Polaris, Suzuki, Tomberlin and Yamaha. Visit the SVIA online at www.svia.org. For safety information or to enroll in the ATV RiderCourseSM nearest you, visit www.atvsafety.org or call (800) 887-2887.

The Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Association (ROHVA) is a national industry organization that promotes the safe and responsible use of ROVs. ROHVA is accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) to develop equipment, configuration and performance standards. Based in Irvine, Calif., the not-for-profit association is sponsored by Arctic Cat, BRP, Kawasaki, Polaris and Yamaha. For more information visit www.rohva.org.

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ATV Safety Institute Reminds Enthusiasts to Ride Responsibly, Especially Over Busy Memorial Day Weekend

ASI Safety Courses are Fun, Convenient Ways to Brush Up on Safety Rules

IRVINE, CA – May 23, 2012 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – The ATV Safety Institute (ASI), along with the major manufacturers and distributors of ATVs, encourage all ATV enthusiasts to ride safely and responsibly this upcoming holiday weekend, and any time they ride an ATV. More than 35 million riders will be operating approximately 10 million ATVs over Memorial Day Weekend in the United States, and they can minimize their risk while increasing their fun by taking the ASI’s hands-on ATV RiderCourse or interactive E-Course to better understand how to safely operate their ATVs.

“The ASI urges all ATV enthusiasts to enroll in an ATV RiderCourse,” said Gary Higgins, chairman of the Specialty Vehicle Institute of America (SVIA). “Participating in the half-day, hands-on course really is the ideal way to kick off the summer riding season. Taking the course is free if you’ve purchased a new, qualifying ATV from an ASI member-company. And, most of the major ATV manufacturers offer incentives for completing the course in the form of cash or merchandise certificates worth up to $100. Really, taking the ATV RiderCourse is a win-win situation for everyone.”

To find an ATV RiderCourse near you and enroll, visit http://www.atvsafety.org. In addition to learning safe riding skills on the range, riders can also brush up on ATV safety principles online with the ATV E-Course. Three age-specific online courses are available: one for adults, another for teens, and one specifically aimed at children. All the courses include videos and interactive games to make them fun and effective learning experiences for every age group.

According to data from the Consumer Product Safety Commission, 92 percent of all ATV-related fatalities are the result of warned-against behaviors. As a result, the ASI strongly recommends that all ATV riders follow the warning labels on each vehicle. Finally, all ATV enthusiasts, no matter their age or experience level, can further minimize their risk by simply adhering to the ASI’s Eight Golden Rules of ATV Safety:

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 an ATV RiderCourse; call toll-free at (800) 887-2887 or go to www.atvsafety.org to register. Or take the online e-course at www.atvsafety.org.

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 RiderCourse nearest you, visit www.atvsafety.org or call (800) 887-2887.

The Specialty Vehicle Institute of America® promotes the safe and responsible use of all-terrain vehicles through rider training, public awareness campaigns and state legislation. Additionally, the SVIA® works to preserve access to off-road lands and expand riding opportunities. The SVIA is a resource for ATV research, statistics and vehicle standards. Accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), the SVIA develops standards for the equipment, configuration and performance requirements of ATVs.

Based in Irvine, Calif., the SVIA is a not-for-profit industry association sponsored by Arctic Cat, BRP, Honda, Kawasaki, KTM, KYMCO, Polaris, Suzuki, Tomberlin and Yamaha. Visit the SVIA online at www.svia.org. For safety information or to enroll in the ATV RiderCourse nearest you, visit www.atvsafety.org or call (800) 887-2887.

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ATV Safety Institute Proclaims the Defeat of The Lead Ban

- Community Called on to Spread the Word, Use Banner Ads -

IRVINE, CA – August 24, 2011 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – The ATV Safety Institute is launching a series of free online banner ads to help spread the word about the end of the lead ban and is calling on everyone in the powersports industry and safety community to post the good news.

Free Banners at http://www.atvsafety.org/leadbanisover_banners.cfm

“Now we’re asking the entire powersports community to let everyone know that youth-model ATVs and dirt bikes are again available for sale,” said Tim Buche, President and CEO of the Motorcycle Industry Council. “So many riders, whether street, off-road, and even lots of racers, began as children, enjoying days in the dirt or desert on little ATVs and motorcycles with their families. And because of two years of passionate, hard work by the industry and enthusiasts everywhere, urging Congress to fix this terrible problem, we won’t have a lost generation of young riders.”

President Obama signed H.R. 2715 into law on Aug. 12, ending the unintentional ban on youth ATVs and off-highway motorcycles. The new law amends the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) to categorically exclude youth ATVs and dirt bikes from the lead content provisions.

“We’d like to see everyone with a website and a stake in the ATV business help deliver this good news,” said Paul Vitrano, general counsel of the MIC and the Specialty Vehicle Institute of America. “By placing one of these digital banners on your website you can be a significant part of a grassroots effort to tell everyone about this important victory.”

The banner ads come in a variety of sizes, with various messages, and are available free of charge to retailers, manufacturers, distributors, riding clubs, youth groups, media and others who want to help announce the defeat of the lead ban. The ads are designed to be posted on websites and link to the stopthebannow website, the ASI E-Course registration page, or other pages with information on youth-model ATVs and dirt bikes.

The Specialty Vehicle Institute of America® promotes the safe and responsible use of all-terrain vehicles through rider training, public awareness campaigns and state legislation. Additionally, the SVIA works to preserve access to off-road lands and expand riding opportunities. The SVIA is a resource for ATV research, statistics and vehicle standards. Accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), the SVIA develops standards for the equipment, configuration and performance requirements of ATVs.

Based in Irvine, Calif., the SVIA is a not-for-profit industry association sponsored by Arctic Cat, BRP, Honda, Kawasaki, KTM, KYMCO, Polaris, Suzuki, Tomberlin and Yamaha. Visit the SVIA online at www.svia.org. 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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ATV Safety Institute Memorial Day Weekend Reminder: Be Safe. Be Responsible. Follow the Golden Rules

Take a RiderCourse; Check out Interactive e-Courses for Adults, Teens and Children

IRVINE, CA – May 25, 2011 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – The All-Terrain Vehicle Safety Institute (ASI) and the nation’s major ATV manufacturers and distributors want to encourage all ATV riders to ride safely and responsibly this holiday weekend, and any time they start up an ATV.

FACT:  Consumer Product Safety Commission data show that 92 percent of all ATV-related fatalities are the result of warned-against behaviors.

Follow the 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 RiderCourse and the free online E-Course. Visit ATVSafety.org or call 800.887.2887.

 “Taking ASI’s ATV RiderCourse is the best way to kick off the season,” said Gary Higgins, chairman of the Specialty Vehicle Institute of America. “The half-day, hands-on course is free if you’ve purchased a new ATV from an ASI member-company. And most of these major manufacturers even pay you to take the course, in the form of cash or merchandise certificates valued at $100.” To enroll in an ATV RiderCourse, visit http://www.atvsafety.org. While the incentives are designed to encourage user participation, the free training is a lifelong offer and is also available to family members.

In addition to learning safe riding skills on the range, riders can brush up on ATV safety principles online with ASI’s E-Course, available at http://www.atvsafety.org. 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.

FACT:  Nearly 90 percent of youth ATV-related injuries occur when a youth is operating an adult-sized ATV.

Higgins reminds parents that supervising young riders is critical: “Every new ATV comes with an ignition key, and it is up to parents to manage when the vehicle can be used, and to supervise children under the age of 16 at all times while they operate an ATV.” The ATV industry has made it easy to know which ATVs are right for a rider’s age through the use of Manufacturer’s Minimum Age Recommendation Warning Labels that are affixed to each ATV.

The ATV Safety Institute encourages families to talk about household rules for ATV riding so that everyone in the family can prepare for a safe, fun summer.

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 http://www.atvsafety.org or call (800) 887-2887.

The Specialty Vehicle Institute of America® promotes the safe and responsible use of all-terrain vehicles through rider training, public awareness campaigns and state legislation. Additionally, the SVIA® works to preserve access to off-road lands and expand riding opportunities. The SVIA is a resource for ATV research, statistics and vehicle standards. Accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), the SVIA develops standards for the equipment, configuration and performance requirements of ATVs.

Based in Irvine, Calif., the SVIA is a not-for-profit industry association sponsored by Arctic Cat, BRP, Honda, Kawasaki, KYMCO, Polaris, Suzuki, Tomberlin and Yamaha. Visit the SVIA online at www.svia.org. 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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South Carolina Governor Signs SVIA-Supported ATV Safety Legislation Law Includes Many Provisions from SVIA’s Model Legislation

IRVINE, CA – May 12, 2011 – (Motor Sports Newswire) -  Yesterday, South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley signed into law all-terrain vehicle safety legislation advocated by the Specialty Vehicle Institute of America (SVIA).  H 3562, the All-Terrain Vehicle Safety Act, known as ‘Chandler’s Law,’ will take effect July 1, 2011.

SVIA has been working for many years in South Carolina to advocate the passage of comprehensive ATV safety legislation.  Earlier this year, SVIA staff testified in support of the pending legislation at a Senate committee hearing.

“We’re extremely pleased the South Carolina legislature and the governor took this positive step to regulate the use of ATVs, particularly for young operators,” said SVIA Senior Vice President of Government Relations Kathy Van Kleeck.  “We are especially appreciative of the efforts of the sponsors of the legislation, Representative Ott and Senator Hutto, for their steadfast support of ATV safety and their perseverance in steering the measure through the legislative process.”

Van Kleeck added, “We also would like to recognize Chandler’s parents who were tireless advocates for ATV safety legislation.  Chandler’s Law is named for a 16-year old who was fatally injured while riding an ATV.”

Research has shown that the vast majority of ATV crashes result from inappropriate use of the product.  Ninety-two percent of ATV-related fatalities involve behaviors the industry warns against in its rider education programs, in all literature and on vehicle labels.  These behaviors include riding inappropriately sized ATVs, operating on paved roads, operating without proper safety gear, and operating under the influence of alcohol.  To address these “warned against behaviors” and other important ATV safety measures, SVIA has developed Model State ATV Legislation that has served as the basis for many existing state ATV safety laws.

Prior to passage of H 3562, South Carolina was one of only five states that had no laws relating to ATVs.  Many bills have been introduced in South Carolina over the past decade, and in both 2006 and 2007 the legislature passed ATV safety bills, only to have them vetoed by then-Governor Mark Sanford.

South Carolina’s new ATV safety law includes many of the key provisions contained in SVIA’s Model Legislation, namely rider training, helmet and eye protection and parental supervision requirements for youth riders, and prohibitions on children riding adult-size ATVs and on ATV operation while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Provisions of the new law include:

• Prohibits a parent or legal guardian knowingly permitting: 1) a child under age 6 to operate an ATV; 2) a child without a driver’s license and under age 16 to carry a passenger while operating an ATV; 3) a child under age 16 to operate an ATV in violation of the Age Restriction Warning Label affixed by the manufacturer.
• Requires ATV operators under age 16 to possess a safety certificate indicating successful completion of a ‘hands-on’ all-terrain vehicle safety course approved by the ATV Safety Institute (ASI).
• Requires every ATV operator and passenger 15 years of age or younger to wear eye protection and a DOT-compliant helmet.
• When operating an ATV on land open to the public:

-     Requires ATV operators age 16 or younger to be accompanied by an adult.
-     Prohibits ATV operation between one-half hour after sunset to one-half hour before sunrise unless headlights are on.
-     Prohibits crossing any watercourse on an ATV except at a designated ford, crossing, bridge, or if the watercourse is bisected by a trail.
-     Requires ATVs to have an effective muffler system, a USDA Forest Service approved spark arrester, and a brake system all in good operating condition.
-     Prohibits ATV operation while under the influence of alcohol or any controlled substance.
-     Prohibits ATV operation in a reckless manner.

•  The new law does not apply to:

-     An owner, operator, or renter of a farm or ranch, or that person’s employees, immediate family, or household members, operating an ATV while engaged in farming, wildlife habitat management, or ranching operations;
-     A person using an ATV for hunting or trapping purposes if otherwise lawfully engaged in those activities; or
-     A minor under age 16, but not younger than age 6 who is operating an ATV under the direct visual supervision of his parent or legal custodian on private property.

The safe and responsible use of ATVs remains the top priority of the ATV industry.  For more than two decades, the ATV industry has made unprecedented efforts to promote safe and responsible ATV use and to deter parents from allowing their children to operate adult-sized ATVs.  The industry is committed to continuing its multi-tiered efforts aimed at further reducing the number of crashes and injuries caused by improper use of ATVs.

The major ATV manufacturers and distributors – through the ATV Safety Institute – offer free training to all purchasers of new ATVs and their eligible family members, a safety initiative unparalleled in any other industry.  Consumers can visit ASI’s website, www.atvsafety.org or call 1-800-887-2887 for information on training at nearly 650 sites in the United States.

The Specialty Vehicle Institute of America® promotes the safe and responsible use of all-terrain vehicles through rider training, public awareness campaigns and state legislation. Additionally, the SVIA® works to preserve access to off-road lands and expand riding opportunities. The SVIA is a resource for ATV research, statistics and vehicle standards. Accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), the SVIA develops standards for the equipment, configuration and performance requirements of ATVs.

Based in Irvine, Calif., the is a not-for-profit industry association sponsored by Arctic Cat, BRP, Honda, Kawasaki, KYMCO, Polaris, Suzuki, Tomberlin and Yamaha. Visit the SVIA online at www.svia.org. 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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Powersports Industry Associations Support Relief Efforts in Japan

MIC, MSF and SVIA Establish Website Links to 2011 Japan Relief Fund
Associations Collectively Donate $10,000 to Relief Efforts

IRVINE, CA – March 22, 2011 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – Three powersports industry associations today joined forces to provide financial assistance to the relief efforts currently underway in Japan.

The boards and members of the Motorcycle Industry Council, the Motorcycle Safety Foundation and the Specialty Vehicle Institute of America are collectively donating $10,000 to the 2011 Japan Relief Fund. Each organization is encouraging its members to make their own contributions. Each organization’s website now incorporates a link to the relief fund so that members and the riding community can easily make donations.

“Thanks to the support of our boards and the contributions of our members, the MIC, MSF and SVIA are able to make a substantial financial contribution to assist the people of Japan,” said Tim Buche, president and chief executive officer of MIC, MSF and SVIA. “We also wanted to provide a way for the riding community to contribute, which is why we established website links.”

Those interested in donating should visit MIC.org, rockmoto.com, motorcycles.org, MSF-USA.org, SVIA.org or atvsafety.org and click on the “2011 Japan Relief Fund” tab. Visitors will be directed to a page with more detailed information and a link to the Japan Relief Fund donation page on the Japan America Society of Southern California website.

The JAS-SC created the 2011 Japan Relief Fund to help provide critical funds to the victims of Japan’s worst natural disaster, the massive 9.0-magnitude earthquake that triggered a tsunami that caused widespread devastation and crippled nuclear power plants.

“The devastation is too much for any country to deal with alone,” said Buche. “Japan is a vital part of our industry, now it is our turn to help them.”

All donations will go to experienced non-governmental disaster relief agencies in Japan that have a proven track record of emergency humanitarian relief and restoration work.

The Motorcycle Industry Council exists to preserve, protect and promote motorcycling through government relations, communications and media relations, statistics and research, aftermarket programs, development of data communications standards, and activities surrounding technical and regulatory issues. As a not-for-profit, national industry association, the MIC seeks to support motorcyclists by representing manufacturers and distributors of motorcycles, scooters, motorcycle/ATV/ROV parts and accessories, and members of allied trades such as insurance, finance and investment companies, media companies and consultants. First called the MIC in 1970, the organization has been in operation since 1914. Visit the MIC at www.mic.org.

The Motorcycle Safety Foundation® promotes safety through rider training and education, operator licensing tests and public information programs. The MSF works with the federal government, state agencies, the military and others to offer training for all skill levels so riders can enjoy a lifetime of safe, responsible motorcycling. Standards established by the MSF® have been recognized worldwide since 1973. The MSF is a not-for-profit organization sponsored by BMW, BRP, Ducati, Harley-Davidson, Honda, Kawasaki, KTM, Piaggio, Suzuki, Triumph, Victory and Yamaha. For safety information or to enroll in the RiderCourseSM nearest you, visit www.msf-usa.org or call (800) 446-9227.

The Specialty Vehicle Institute of America® promotes the safe and responsible use of all-terrain vehicles through rider training, public awareness campaigns and state legislation. Additionally, the SVIA® works to preserve access to off-road lands and expand riding opportunities. The SVIA is a resource for ATV research, statistics and vehicle standards. Accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), the SVIA develops standards for the equipment, configuration and performance requirements of ATVs. The SVIA is a not-for-profit industry association sponsored by Arctic Cat, BRP, Honda, Kawasaki, KTM, KYMCO, Polaris, Suzuki, Tomberlin and Yamaha. Visit the SVIA online at www.svia.org. For safety information or to enroll in the ATV RiderCourseSM nearest you, visit www.atvsafety.org or call (800) 887-2887.

New Right Rider Access Fund Will Fuel Off-Highway Recreation

Broad Support, Deep Expertise, No Overhead . . .
A One-of-a-Kind Resource for OHV Enthusiasts

INDIANAPOLIS, IN – February 18, 2011 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – The Right Rider Access Fund, a 501(c)(3) charitable community benefit organization, was unveiled today. Its mission is to promote the safe and responsible use of off-highway vehicles (OHVs) and to preserve riders’ access to appropriate lands, by directly supporting riders and by supplementing the work of the Motorcycle Industry Council (MIC), the Specialty Vehicle Institute of America (SVIA), and the Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Association (ROHVA).

The Right Rider Access Fund is supported in part by MIC, SVIA and ROHVA, which will provide partial funding and administrative resources for the organization. The industry associations’ professional staff will execute the Fund’s mission. The Right Rider Access Fund also relies on generous contributions from individuals and businesses.

Today, there are an estimated 14 million off-highway motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and recreational off-highway vehicles (ROVs) in use. People choose off-highway recreation for many reasons: as a great family activity, an invigorating sport, a unique mode of exploration and adventure, and more.

“Enthusiasts need and deserve more help to ensure they can safely and responsibly operate their OHVs and access riding areas. By combining the existing support of the powersports industry associations with contributions from businesses and individuals, the financial resources available to support OHV enthusiasts will increase exponentially,” said the Fund’s President, Tim Buche. “Equally important, with industry expertise available to manage the work of the Fund on a charitable basis, 100% of contributions go to benefit off-highway enthusiasts – none is lost to cover overhead, personnel expenses or fundraising activities.”

The Fund initially will support OHV riders through three programs:

• The Safety, Education and Training Support Program will provide funding or other resources for safety, education and training initiatives.
• The OHV Organization Support Program will provide funding or other resources to national, state and local OHV rider organizations for projects designed to promote OHV recreation and expand OHV riding opportunities. For example, major funding for National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Council (NOHVCC) will be granted through the Fund.
• The Access Preservation Support Program will coordinate, manage and administer specific rider-funded, legal action to lessen the burdens of government in connection with their access to public lands.

 

“By contributing to the fund you will be supporting a variety of educational and training programs designed by off-highway vehicle professionals,” added Buche. “You’ll also help ensure that riding areas are not arbitrarily designated as off-limits to off-highway recreationists and encourage respect for the environment. Contributors can designate their donation to any or all of the three programs.”

The Fund relies on generous contributions from individuals and businesses. MIC, SVIA, and ROHVA employees opted to participate in a payroll deduction program. The first contributions were donated beginning February 18, 2011.

For more information about the Right Rider Access Fund and how to contribute, review the Frequently Asked Questions at riderfund.org/faq.

The Right Rider Access Fund is a charitable, community benefit organization created in 2011 to support off-highway vehicle enthusiasts directly, by supplementing the work of the Motorcycle Industry Council, the Specialty Vehicle Institute of America, and the Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Association, and in other ways.  Based in Irvine, California, the Fund’s charitable mission is to promote the safe and responsible use of off-highway vehicles and to preserve their access to appropriate lands. The breadth of the funding sources, the depth of expertise and the absence of overhead make the Right Rider Access Fund a one-of-a-kind resource for OHV enthusiasts. Visit the Fund at riderfund.org.