04
June
2015
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17:00 PM
America/Chicago

Smart riders stay safe on the terrain with these ATV safety tips from American Family Insurance

Madison, Wis. (June 5, 2015) - ATV riding can be fun and exciting, but according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, hundreds of deaths and thousands of injuries are associated with this activity every year. Many of these accidents are the result of irresponsible driving and not obeying the rules of the road.

Like other activities involving high speeds and heavy machinery, riding an ATV can be risky. To help stay safe, follow these tips from the ATV Safety Institute:

  • Take a hands-on safety training course.
  • Wear a helmet, goggles, gloves, long sleeves, long pants and over-the-ankle boots.
  • Never carry a passenger on a single-rider ATV or more than one passenger on an ATV designed for two.
  • Never ride on paved roads; ATVs are designed for off-highway use.
  • Ride only on designated trails and at safe speeds.
  • Never ride under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.

Children and ATVs

Tragically, many of those hurt in ATV accidents are children under 16. Statistics show nearly 90 percent of youth ATV-related injuries occur when a child is operating an adult-sized ATV. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that no child under 16 ride an ATV of any size.

If you do allow your child to ride an ATV, choose one appropriate for their size – and have the child take an age-appropriate training course first.

For ATV riders less than 16 constant adult supervision is strongly recommended. Remind young riders that ATVs are not toys.

About American Family Insurance
Madison, Wis.– based American Family Insurance is the nation's third-largest mutual property/casualty insurance company and ranks 358th on the Fortune 500 list. The company sells American Family-brand products, including auto, homeowners, life, business and farm/ranch insurance, through its exclusive agents in 19 states. American Family affiliates (The General, Homesite and AssureStart) also provide options for consumers who want to manage their insurance matters directly over the Internet or by phone. Web: www.amfam.com; Facebook: www.facebook.com/amfam; Twitter: www.twitter.com/amfam. Google+ plus.google.com/+amfam/

American Family Insurance Company, American Family Mutual Insurance Company, American Standard Insurance Company of Ohio, American Standard Insurance Company of Wisconsin, 6000 American Parkway, Madison WI 53783.

News media contact:
Sandra Spann
Media Relations
(608) 242-4100, ext. 32881
sspann@amfam.com