Last week, a 10-year-old boy was killed in an ATV (All Terrain Vehicle) crash at the Rednecks With Paychecks celebration near Saint Jo. According to KFDX News Channel Three, the child, Nicholas Torres of Fort Worth, was riding between two trailers when the four-wheeler he was on collided with a pickup truck. Although very few details about the crash have been released, we do know that he was not wearing a helmet at the time of the wreck.
10-Year-Old Fatally Injured in Four-Wheeler Crash
Although Torres was rushed to the hospital, he died as a result of his injuries. KFDX News Channel Three also reports that the four-day Rednecks With Paychecks event had about 10,000 participants this year.
ATV Crash Statistics
- Between 1982 and 2012, there were 12,391 ATV-related deaths.
- Nearly a quarter of those victims were under the age of 16.
- 353 of those deaths occurred in 2012.
- In 2012, an estimated 107,900 people were injured in ATV crashes.
- An estimated 26,500 of those injuries happened to children under the age of 16.
All-Terrain-Vehicle Safety
As the weather gets nicer, more and more people will be out on ATV’s, four-wheelers, dune buggies, dirt bikes and other recreational vehicles. It’s important to remember that while these off-road vehicles are fun, they’re not without risk. Safety for drivers and riders depends upon correct operation of the vehicles and the use of safety equipment, like helmets, boots and gloves.
Injured on Somebody Else’s ATV
Many of the injuries and deaths that occur on ATV’s and other recreational vehicles happen on somebody else’s recreational vehicle. Riding a friend’s ATV isn’t always a good choice, especially if you don’t have experience or any training. Also, your friend may not provide appropriate safety gear like well-fitted helmets, boots or gloves. Underestimating risk or not being properly taught to operate the vehicle can also both contribute as potential factors involved in some ATV crashes.
Safety First
With good weather on the way, more and more people will be taking to their ATV’s and other off-road recreational vehicles. It’s absolutely essential that safety come first. Always wear a well-fitting safety certified helmet and safe footwear and clothing. In the event of a wreck, you’ll have a much better chance at avoiding injury.
The whole team at the Altman Legal Group sends their deepest heartfelt condolences to the family members, friends and loved ones of Nicholas Torres.