Evaluation of standardized ATV safety education project for youth in rural Central Illinois

Background: Extensive research investigating the characteristics of all-terrain vehicle (ATV) riders and injury patterns has led to advocacy for legislative and educational efforts to decrease injuries in users younger than 16, however, there is little published data regarding the utility of ATV safety educational programs. This study investigates the effectiveness of a standardized adolescent ATV safety program in changing the safety knowledge and safe ATV riding practices of rural Central Illinois youths. Methods: A convenience sample of 260 rural Central Illinois middle and high school students received a didactic and interactive ATV safety presentation. Pre- and post-interventional surveys were distributed to participants through their teachers. Survey questions, which were developed and adapted after a pilot study during the previous year, consisted of multiple-choice questions pertaining to demographics, ATV safety knowledge, and ATV riding practices. 207 surveys were collected prior to and 165 surveys were collected 12-24 weeks after the intervention. Post-intervention surveys were collected and data analysis was performed after February 2010. Results: Following the intervention, there was a significant increase in the correct response rate for ATV safety knowledge questions (31.6% vs. 35.8%, p=0.0203). Amongst adolescents riding ATVs, both safety gear use (12.6% to 20.6%, p=0.1094) and helmet use (25.4% to 29.0%, p=0.5635) increased non-significantly. Adolescent ATV riders reporting 2 or more accidents showed a non-significant decrease (15.2% vs. 11.6%, p=0.4612). Conclusion: This safety program is effective at increasing ATV safety knowledge but demonstrates limited affect on safe riding practices.