All Terrain Vehicles (ATVs)

All Terrain Vehicles (ATVs)

All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are defined as a small motor vehicle with three or four wheels  designed for use on various types of terrain.  ATVs are often used in agricultural industries but they are also commonly used for recreation and transportation. Child Safety Link has significant concerns regarding the use of ATVs by children and youth due to the high risk of serious injury and death.  There has also been increased rates of ridership over the past 20 years, further exacerbating this issue.

The following CSL backgrounder provides an overview of ATV-related injuries and deaths across Canada, a review of provincial ATV safety legislation, recommendations to help reduce incidents and injuries as well as a summary of key messages for parents and caregivers:

Backgrounder: ATV Safety for Children and Youth (November 2020)

Other helpful links:

• ATVs and kids (Parachute Canada): https://parachute.ca/en/injury-topic/all-terrain-vehicles/
• Statement from the Canadian Pediatric Society on ATVs: https://www.cps.ca/en/documents/position/preventing-injury-from-atvs