Safety Tips for Off-Road Enthusiasts
After a spring of consistent rainstorms, the summer sun is finally here and Utah is seeing an increase in outdoor recreation. Utah is the home of many outdoor motorcycle and ATV recreation areas, from the Salt Flats to the red rocks of Moab. However, with the summer fun comes the risk of serious injury. An article from TheSpectrum.com offers some safety tips for off-road enthusiasts. Of course, helmets are strongly recommended. Children under the age of 18 must wear a helmet according to Utah State law. While adults are not required to wear one, we strongly recommend the use of helmets to avoid serious Utah traumatic brain injury or fatalities. Recreational vehicles can be difficult to handle, so avoid riding too fast and taking sharp turns, as this can quickly lead to rollovers.
In the event of an accident, it is important to properly assess the situation. Some injuries may not require hospitalization and can be treated from home. However, if you are unsure of the magnitude of the injury, it is best to call 911. Symptoms to look for when you are assessing an injury include pains in the chest, abdomen or head; incessant bleeding; loss of consciousness or confusion, and difficulties breathing. If any of these symptoms occur, it is best to call an ambulance.
Many Utah off-road motorcycle and ATV accidents occur in rural locations, far from the hospital. Beginning in 2010, Southern Utah will have access to a Life Flight helicopter to help transport and treat severely injured victims. Life Flight helicopters make transportation to hospitals much quicker and are equipped with the latest medical technology, offering life-saving services to Utah accident victims.
Now that summer is here, the Utah injury lawyers at the Christensen Law Firm encourage you to be safe and to have fun!