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Risky Riding: ATV safety hazards for children

As ridership has grown nationwide, hundreds of children have been killed riding all-terrain vehicles built for adults. The Star Tribune published a five-part series in November 2014 examining how the industry, government and families have failed to heed the warnings about risks that off-road vehicles pose to children.

Part One: Four-wheel thrills drive child injuries, deaths

Part One: Four-wheel thrills drive child injuries, deaths

Some ATV enthusiasts are gambling with their children's lives. Instead of buying off-road vehicles specifically designed for young riders, many parents are letting their children drive adult-sized ATVs that can exceed 60 miles per hour and are as difficult to control as a car.
  • Josh's story: 'I thought I was invincible'
  • Children and ATVs
  • 'I thought I was invincible'
Linsey Ellestad, 13, of Hastings, was among the young drivers who attended a Department of Natural Resources training course.

Part Two: States shun federal ATV age limits

November 20, 2014
For years, federal regulators, doctors and the all-terrain vehicle industry have agreed: Children should not ride ATVs designed for adults. But in most states, the practice is legal.
Part Three: ATV regulations are all over the map

Part Three: ATV regulations are all over the map

December 1, 2014
Some have imposed tough laws for children to ride, but others leave age minimum open.

Massachusetts has nation's toughest ATV law

June 1, 2015

Part Four: ATV design changes could reduce injuries

December 1, 2014
Some call for added features, but the industry says riders who follow the warnings already in place will be safe.

Part Five: Dangerous terrain: ATVs and open roads in Minnesota

December 1, 2014
No surface is more dangerous for ATVs than pavement, many road safety authorities say. But across the country, more local and state governments are allowing all-terrain vehicles to be driven on paved roads.

Live Chat Replay: Our Q&A on regulating ATVs

November 20, 2014
The Star Tribune just completed a series about the missed warnings and risks of off-road vehicles that frequently injure or kill children. Read a chat conducted by the series reporter.
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