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

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 inc)