ATV and UTV Safety
ATV and UTV injuries are more common than many people realize, and children and teens are especially at risk. Learn the risks and how simple safety choices can help prevent life-changing injuries.
All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and utility task vehicles (UTVs) are widely used for both recreation and work, but they also pose serious risks, especially for children and teens.
In some years, more children die in ATV/UTV crashes than in bicycle-related crashes.
The good news is that with the right safety practices, proper equipment, and education, riders and families can significantly reduce their risk.
University of Iowa Health Care Stead Family Children’s Hospital’s Safety Tips for ATV/UTV Riders (STARs) Program and injury prevention resources are designed to help children and parents make safer choices.
| Vehicles | Design features | Associated risks |
|---|---|---|
| ATVs and UTVs |
|
|
| ATVs only |
|
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| UTVs only |
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Explore ATV/UTV safety topics
Our STARs program is an educational initiative built around 10 key safety principles proven to prevent injuries.
Learn how to bring the STARs program to your school or community — or how to implement it yourself.
ATVs and UTVs are not designed for public roads, yet roadway crashes account for a large share of fatalities.
Learn why riding on roads is so dangerous and how to avoid these risks.
Most ATVs are designed for one rider only, but many crashes involve passengers.
Understand how extra riders increase risk on ATVs and review safe passenger guidelines for UTVs.
Vehicle size matters. Children under 16 should never operate adult-sized ATVs or UTVs.
Find out how to choose the right machine based on age, size, and skill level.
Helmets can reduce the risk of head injury by up to 60%.
See what every rider should wear to stay protected.
UTVs have different features than ATVs—such as seatbelts and roll cages—and require different safety precautions.
Learn what makes UTV safety unique.
Training makes a difference. Certified ATV safety courses teach riders the skills and judgment needed to avoid common risks.
Explore online or in-person courses to get started.
Rules vary by state, but they play an important role in keeping riders safe.
Visit the ATV Safety Institute to learn about laws and requirements in your area.
We are proud to collaborate with these organizations:
Supported by: Grinnell Mutual Insurance
Partners:
Brain Injury Alliance of Iowa
Rural Health and Safety Clinic of Greater Johnson County
Safe Kids Johnson County
University of Iowa Injury Prevention Research Center
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers