ATV Regulation To Be Considered

The Georgia Legislature and the Consumer Product Safety Commission will consider whether additional safety rules are warranted to address the injury hazards posed by all-terrain vehicles. State Rep. Chuck Sims (R-Douglas) plans on introducing legislation today that would require safety training, helmet use by ATV riders who are under 16, and prohibit more than one person from riding on single-seat ATVs. It would also prohibit ATV users who are under 16 from riding their vehicles in public access areas.

The staff of the Consumer Product Safety Commission is looking at several potential regulatory changes. Recommendations to the commissioners are expected in 2006. The staff is considering whether:

1. the voluntary standards covering stability, speed and braking should be strengthened and whether the standards should be mandatory;
2. ATV sales to individuals under 16 should be prohibited;
3. a new, intermediate-size ATV would be appropriate for individuals 13-15;
4. information concerning the hazards of ATV operation should be posted where they are sold; and
5. training, which manufacturers make available, should be mandatory. 

For more coverage see the Atlanta Journal-Constitution's ATV Regulation.

MKS