RICHMOND—All-terrain vehicles see plenty of farm and recreational use in the summer, and Virginia Farm Bureau is encouraging ATV owners and parents of young ATV riders to be informed.

“ATVs are a lot of fun, but there are also a lot of dangers associated with these heavy machines,” said Jimmy Maass, safety coordinator for Virginia Farm Bureau. “Without the appropriate safety gear and knowledge that goes along with operating an ATV, riders can be severely injured, and oftentimes these injuries can be fatal.”

Virginia law requires all ATV riders to wear a helmet. It also is recommended that riders wear long sleeves, long pants, goggles, elbow and knee pads, gloves and boots. Younger riders also should wear chest protection.

It is recommended that children younger than 6 not be permitted to ride an ATV. Children between 6 and 12 years of age must ride an ATV that is smaller than 70 cc, and those between 12 and 16 should ride a vehicle that’s smaller than 90 cc. Vehicles that are larger than 90 cc are for riders who are 16 and older.

“We are seeing a lot of injuries and deaths because children are riding ATVs that are too big for them,” Maass said. “Keep the size of the ATV to the age of the child and his or her capabilities.”

Passengers are not permitted on an ATV at any time unless it is designed to be operated with a passenger.

ATV use on public highways is generally prohibited in Virginia, with a few exceptions. Also, all new ATVs larger than 50 cc that were purchased after July 1, 2006, are required to be titled.

“When children are riding ATVs, they should be under constant supervision,” Maass said. “A parent or adult should accompany young ATV riders.”

It also is recommended that parents of young riders have some type of remote device that lets them control the ATV. If the child is driving too fast or is not riding safely, the parent can use the remote to warn the child or turn the engine off.

ATV dealers offer a rider orientation and safety course provided by the ATV Institution of America. There is no cost for the four-hour class for owners of a new ATV. Other owners also can take the class at a cost. For training course locations, call 800-887-2887 or visit atvsafety.org.

Contact Maass at 804-290-1379.