ATV - All Terrain Vehicle sounds a mouthful when it is being pronounced in its full name, but just how much do you know about ATVs? You may have read stories about ATVs in the newspapers, magazines or even on the internet, but what do you really know about them?

How many of you know that an ATV is not just a big boy's toy? If you are one of those who raised your hands, good on you but if you are one of those who are not sure if ATVs are just a big boy's toys or not - well, we will let you in on a little secret, ATVs are not just big boys' toys! ATVs are powerful and could be potentially dangerous machines if it is not properly handled or if safety measures are not taken when riding on one. Unfortunately, not many people "remember" this fact when they go out to ride on their ATVs. The recent report of the death of Hunter Benton, a 14-month old toddler, while riding on an ATV with his grandfather is a sad reminder that goes to show just how "forgetful" people can be when they choose fun over safety. It was reported that the machine's throttle malfunctioned - sending both grandfather and grandson crashing into a parked sport utility vehicle. It is very dangerous to allow a toddler so young to sit on your lap while you ride on an ATV because most ATVs are not built for more than one rider. In addition to that point, it is important that you check your ATV first before you ride on it so that you are confident that your machine is in good working condition.

Children under the age of 16 should never be an "extra passenger" on an ATV or even attempt to ride on their own on an adult ATV. There are specially designed youth ATVs that are made for kids below 16 years of age. If you want to find out more about youth ATVs, try visiting www.jackel.com or www.kazumausa.com for some great models.

An ATV can travel at an excess speed of 60 miles per hour and weighs over 700 pounds. These machines can easily roll and tip over. Their unpredictable nature in off road conditions makes training and proper usage of ATVs very important. Just in 2003 alone, there were about 740 deaths related to ATVs that includes 140 reported deaths involving children. In 2004, it is said that an estimate of 136,000 ATV related injuries were treated in hospital emergency rooms. Just these figures alone should make you take up proper ATV training and riding courses as well as learning and practicing the safety rules and regulations.

There is just one thing that riders should never forget when they go out riding on their ATVs - and that is, you must always remember to wear your protective gears, especially your helmets. Never go riding on an ATV without your helmet. Another important fact about riding an ATV is that you should never ride on one when you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol. When you are under the influence of such substances, your reflexes are usually a lot slower than your normal self and you may not be able to "detect" danger as quickly.

ATVs are a great sport to take up - if you adhere by the basic rules and regulations. If you are a beginner in ATV riding, you may want to check out www.atvoutdoors.net for some ATV fun. Remember, it is better to be safe than sorry - so don't just remember the rules and regulations for ATV riding in your head, practice them!