CARBONDALE TOWNSHIP, LACKAWANNA COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — Following a fatal crash, ATV experts are reminding people about the risks of riding and sharing tips on how to stay safe.
Experts say it’s important to make sure you are operating an age-appropriate ATV and that you are riding on the right terrain.
Following a fatal ATV crash involving a teen in Lackawanna County, motorsport specialists are weighing in on safety.
Lance Mirkin is the owner of Pocono Motorsports in Monroe County and Hamlin Motorsports in Wayne County.
Without commenting on the investigation specifically, he says it’s important to follow basic safety protocol like wearing a helmet and checking your brakes.
Helmets expire every 10 years, and you should make sure it’s Department of Transportation certified.
“Operating an ATV, it’s the same risk as operating any vehicle. First of,f you have to make sure that the machine is good with good tires, good brakes, and it runs well,” explained Mirkin.
Mirkin also says ATVs are age-restricted by the government, meaning you need to be a certain age to ride a certain kind.
To ride a full-sized one, you must be 16 years or older. That’s because the larger the ATV, the more powerful it is.
“You have to have the right machine for the right age, the right size, and you definitely shouldn’t be driving on the streets,” said Mirkin.
State law notes there are designated locations where ATVs can be operated.
“Well, there are certain private parks; you can bring your own machine; the state has a couple of places,” explained Mirkin.
Mirkin says the activity is growing in popularity, especially with kids. He suggests the state convert some hunting lands into ATV parks.
“So we have to try to find a spot that the kids can actually go and adults as well and enjoy themselves, without the perils of driving on the street to get there,” said Mirkin.
All ATVs in the state except those used solely for business or agricultural purposes need to be registered and titled with the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.
