Dr. Brown’s study also showed that none of the surveyed respondents underwent a formal ATV training course, although nearly half said they received training from a friend or relative. Only five dealers offered training.
Meanwhile, in a separate study, Dr. Jennissen and his colleagues showed that many primary care providers don’t advise their patients on ATV safety.
In an electronic survey of 218 primary care providers, 60% said they thought ATV anticipatory guidance was important for pediatric patients and their families. However, nearly 80% said they provided such counseling less than 10% of the time (J. Community Health 2012;37:968-75).
The survey also showed that families rarely ask about ATV safety; 84% of providers said they were asked about ATVs once a year or less.
"You don’t have to be an expert on ATVs, but you should be able to provide families basic safety recommendations and refer them to web sites for more detailed information," said Dr. Jennissen.
Dr. Jennissen and Dr. Brown said they had no relevant financial disclosures.