Underage drivers on all-terrain vehicles may soon be faced with stricter safety guidelines, according to news reports .
Gov. Nikki Haley said she would willingly pass into law any measure that provides training and protection for youths who operate and ride on ATVs. Her want for increased ATV safety comes after a fatal accident during the weekend of a 14-year-old bot riding an ATV.
South Carolina is one of six states in the United States without any youth ATV protection laws.
“A bill that would require some training and protections for children is now in the General Assembly. Supporters have tried and failed for years to get lawmakers to pass such a measure. However, many politicians don’t like to support such bills because many voters disapprove of new government laws that seek to regulate conduct,” according to news reports.
As a Moncks Corner personal injury lawyer , I know how dangerous ATVs can be. In 2005, an estimated 136,700 injuries associated with ATVs were treated in U.S. hospital emergency rooms, according to Consumer Product Safety Commission statistics. There were 767 deaths associated with ATVs in 2004. I urge all ATV riders to practice safe habits while riding and never ride at high speeds. Drivers should also wear a DOT-approved helmet, protective eyewear, gloves and suitable riding boots for all riding conditions.
If you have been injured in an ATV, quad, quad bike, three wheeler, or four wheeler accident, contact a Greenville personal injury lawyer .