JA:2021-13. Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Exposure, Safety Behaviors and Crash Experiences among Iowa FFA Members

Abstract

ABSTRACT Purpose: Recreational off-highway vehicles (ROVs) have become increasingly popular, but no studies have examined the safety issues and experiences of rural teens while operating ROVs. Methods: Attendees of the 2015 and 2016 Iowa FFA Leadership Conference were surveyed on ROV use frequency, the safety behaviors practiced, and the crashes and injuries experienced. Descriptive and comparative analyses were performed. Results/Findings: 2075 surveys were analyzed. Most respondents were 15–18 years of age, and 55% were female. The residence of participants included on a farm (51%), in the country but not a farm (20%), and in town (29%). Over four-fifths had been on an ROV, and 66% and 81% reported riding an ROV in the past year for occupational and recreational purposes, respectively. Many were frequent riders, with 50% and 36% of those who rode for occupational and recreation purposes, respectively, being at least weekly riders. The most frequent work tasks performed by youth with ROVs included transportation, checking fields and livestock, and working on fences. Those reporting that their families owned an ROV (35% overall) varied by place of residence (Farm > Country Not Farm > Town, p < 0.001). Over 95% and over 75% of ROV riders reported traveling on unpaved and paved public roads, respectively, in the past year. Many were at least weekly riders on public roads. About 80% stated they never or almost never wore a helmet, and nearly half stated they never or almost never wore the seat belt/safety harness when riding an ROV. In the year prior to taking the survey, 14% of those riding for occupational purposes and 12% of those riding for recreational purposes were involved in at least one ROV crash. Collision with an object was the most common crash mechanism (~42%), followed by a rollover (~38%). About 15% of those having a crash in the past year sought medical attention for injuries. Practical Application: Iowa FFA members have high exposure to ROV riding, and both unsafe riding behaviors and crashes are very common. Interventions to increase ROV safety awareness and safe riding behaviors in children and adolescents are urgently needed, especially in rural areas.