A comparison of ATV-related behaviors, exposures, and injuries between farm youth and nonfarm youth.

CONTEXT: All terrain vehicles (ATVs) are a popular form of transportation and recreation for youth. ATVs are also convenient for farm-related activities. However, the impact of the farming environment on ATV-related injuries is not clear.

PURPOSE: To determine differences in ATV-related behaviors, exposures, risk factors, and injuries between farm youth and their nonfarm peers.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study design was used. A survey was administered to 652 youths in agricultural education programs throughout the state of Arkansas.

RESULTS

A majority (60%) of students have operated ATVs within the past month. Cross tabulations found that farm youth who rode ATVs were more likely to be white and male, to own a 3-wheel ATV, and to ride more often with a single rider. Risk factors for sustaining an ATV-related injury were frequency of use and the number of persons on the ATV.

CONCLUSIONS

Study findings suggest that ATV use among farm youth does differ from their nonfarm peers. ATV use among all youth is a safety concern in Arkansas because of the behaviors and exposures that the youth cited.