ATVs are a blast during the summer. Picture yourself roaring down the trail with the sun on your back and the wind bringing tears to your eyes.
And while ATVs are great summer fun, they can be dangerous if you don’t take proper precautions. While ATVs don’t require as much skill to ride as dirt bikes or motorcycles do, but they can still result in serious injuries and even death.
Let’s look at 4 of the most common ATV injuries and how you can avoid and treat them.
1. Concussion
Concussions are a type of traumatic brain injury that occurs when there’s an impact to your head. On an ATV, this could be a result of falling off the vehicle, the vehicle rolling over, hitting your head as you’re thrown from the vehicle, etc.
Concussions can lead to serious problems like difficulty concentrating, seizures, headache, vomiting, confusion, slurred speech, and potentially death if it’s serious.
Avoid concussions by always wearing protective headgear. If you feel like you have a concussion, see a doctor. Most treatment involves rest, avoidance of screens/stimuli, and reduction of physical activity.
2. Broken Bones
Broken bones and fractures are probably the most common of all ATV injuries. If you fall, are thrown from the ATV, or the ATV rolls on you, chances are any bones that are in the way are going to break.
This could be your leg, your wrist, your arm, your collarbone, your ribs, etc. Avoid this by going at a proper speed while wearing protective gear.
See a doctor for treatment. They’ll most likely give you a split or a cast to allow the bones to heal properly.
3. Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries are unfortunately common 4 wheeler accidents; they’re serious injuries that can lead to paralysis and even death.
Be sure to know how to operate a 4 wheeler before riding, and always make sure you’re going at safe speeds. Getting thrown from the vehicle or having it roll on you is a sure way to damage your spinal cord and affect the rest of your life.
If you suspect a spinal cord injury, you need to see a doctor right away to assess your condition.
4. Cuts and Bruises
ATVs are big, heavy, metal machines. If you roll over on one, it will crush and cut whatever part of you it lands on.
This can result in large lacerations usually on your legs and arms. See a doctor to determine whether you’ll need stitches for the wound to heal. If not, make sure the cut is clean and bandaged properly to avoid infection.
Common ATV Injuries and How to Treat Them: Wrapping Up
ATVs are fun, but they definitely aren’t toys. You need to take proper precaution when operating these vehicles, especially if children or teenagers are involved.
These 4 ATV injuries can be prevented with proper operation and protective gear. If you still become injured, make sure you treat the injuries and see a doctor as soon as possible.
Any questions about treatment or other ATV injuries? Contact us!