Since the nineteen seventies, ATV's have been a staple of American culture. However, in the nineteen eighties, it was determined that ATV's were dangerous vehicles. Many were convinced that the machines themselves were unsafe. ATV enthusiasts argue that it was the operators not exercising caution when using the ATV that was the problem.
Because of this debate, warning labels and limitations have been placed on the use of ATV's. This was essentially to keep the government from Banning the use of ATV's altogether. At one time the Consumer Products Safety Commission had determined that there were many more injuries involved with ATV's than with any other motor vehicles used for recreational purposes. in reality, this was due to the cocky attitude of the beginner ATV driver, who felt that he could easily maneuver the vehicle because it didn't immediately fall over, as a motorcycle would.
Since the late seventies through today, ATV popularity has waxed and waned Several times over. Farmers continue to use ATV's as a transportation device for fertilizer, seed and other farm products, as well as traveling around their large farms. ATV's Have been used to haul firewood, as well as lawn clippings, etc.
Unfortunately, due to the bad rap that ATV's received back in the eighties, users of ATV's are highly discriminated against. The regulation costs alone are higher than all other trail users. Unlike other off-road-only vehicles, ATV users must have titles and registration, and very often need to have insurance. People who own ATV's are themselves more regulated than any other off-road vehicle group.
The only way that these laws and restrictions will change for ATV enthusiasts, is for all of us to band together and speak out to our elected officials. Contact your representative, contact your senator, and contact your local county elected officials. Speak out about the discrimination facing ATV riders, and perhaps one day we will all face equality.
