Safety experts are urging riders to make every ATVs (All-Terrain Vehicles) and ROVs (Recreational Off-Highway Vehicles) ride a safe one, because wearing a helmet and practicing responsible riding can prevent life-altering injuries and save lives.
Oklahoma continues to rank among the top states for ATV-related fatalities, averaging 20–26 deaths annually, according to the Consumer Federation of America (CFA). These incidents involve a range of off-highway vehicles, including four-wheelers (also known as quads), UTVs and side-by-sides.
As of June 2025, Oklahoma has reported 17 ATV/ROV-related deaths, with victims ranging in age from 8 to adult. Nearly 90% of crashes involving youth occur when they are operating adult-sized vehicles. Despite expert and manufacturer recommendations, helmet usage remains dangerously low.
“The single most effective way to prevent severe ATV and ROV injuries is wearing a properly fitted Department of Transportation (DOT) helmet,” says Mike Klumpp, ATV Ride Safe Oklahoma – ATV Safety Coordinator at Bethany Children’s Health Center. “Head trauma remains one of the most dangerous risks for riders, especially young ones. A helmet can mean the difference between a close call and a life-altering accident. Parents should also ensure their children are riding age-appropriate ATVs under proper supervision to keep them safe.”
ATV Ride Safe Oklahoma: Free Statewide Training
Bethany Children’s Health Center leads the ATV Ride Safe Oklahoma initiative, offering free, customizable ATV safety education across the state. These programs are available to schools, youth groups, summer camps, families, and community organizations.
- Classroom and community-based education on helmet use, age-appropriate vehicles, risk reduction, and supervision.
- Hands-on ATV RiderCourse®, a half-day training taught by licensed ATV Safety Institute instructors, where participants develop real-world riding skills in a controlled environment.
- Interactive workshops with videos, presentations, and age-appropriate activities.
Education is the first step in protecting young riders. Families, schools and youth-serving organizations are encouraged to take advantage of these life-saving programs by visiting Bethany Children’s Health Center ATV Safety Program.
“Remember to always be safe out there!” said Klumpp. “Have fun and enjoy what the out great outdoors has to offer and be safe. Every Ride. Every Time.”
Mike Klumpp is the ATV Safety Coordinator at ATV Ride Safe Oklahoma. He is ATV RiderCourse Chief Instructor/ASI/ROHVA.
