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http://www.ky3.com/news/ky3-arkansas-motorcycle-and-atv-de-112910,0,3401095.storyArkansas motorcycle and ATV deaths at record high Meanwhile, the federal government is pushing helmets for all motorcycle riders.
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KY3 Reporter
5:58 p.m. CST, November 29, 2010 E-mail Print Share Text Size ky3-arkansas-motorcycle-and-atv-de-112910 HARRISON, Ark.-- The number of motorcycle and ATV deaths in Arkansas are at an all time high, and the federal government is pushing for states to require helmet usage on motorcycles.
When Sandy Stroope sells motorcycles and ATVs, helmets come recommended. "Whenever we sell a motorcycle to folks, we absolutely say, you should wear a helmet," says Sandy Strope, owner of Boat World, Honda, Polaris in Harrison.
But Arkansas law hasn't required riders 21 and older to wear them since 1997, and Stroope knows many of his customers won't. "I do understand, in Arkansas, especially, we have a lot of very independent folks, and they're very conscious of the fact; they don't want somebody telling them what to do," says Stroope.
But recent numbers show an increase in motorcycle and ATV fatalities in Arkansas. According to Arkansas Online, there were 89 deaths this year to date, the highest ever. "I think it's because there's more riders, for a couple reasons, one is for the savings they get on gasoline and another because it's popular. It's a trend that has become popular. People get together and ride," says Captain Mike Foster with Arkansas State Police.
When it comes to ATVs, many don't even consider a helmet, and they're not required. "I use them out in the woods and trails and out on the farm and on the road and stuff, but helmet- I never felt like I've needed one," says Robert Edgmon.
But they have led to plenty of fatal accidents as well. "Usually speed, and then they overturn, and because they don't have any protection, they suffer a head injury," says Foster.
At Stroope's dealership, a helmet is part of the package with any youth ATV. "For children, absolutely," says Stroope. He believes a contributor to many crashes is when young kids are riding machines that aren't designed for them. "They shouldn't be riding the full size machines. They should be on one that's appropriate for their age," Stroope says. He sells ATVs of different sizes and speed capabilities for ages 6 and up, 12 and up, and adults.
"A real handy tool on the farm and they're safe and a lot of fun if you'll just be responsible," says Edgmon.
The National Transportation Safety Board recommended all states require motorcycle helmets in 2007, and just this month placed motorcycle safety on it's "most wanted" list for transportation safety improvements. Some Arkansas legislators are considering a law, not to mandate helmets, but to require riders to carry more insurance if they choose not to wear one.
