All-terrain vehicle, trampoline and scooter injuries and their prevention in children.
OBJECTIVE
Childhood injuries are the leading cause of death in children and result in significant healthcare utilization. Injuries specifically related to all terrain vehicles, trampolines and scooter usage can be devastating and are often preventable. Our understanding of how and why these injuries occur can aid in preventing morbidity and mortality.


RESULTS
The popularity of all-terrain vehicles, nonmotorized scooters and trampolines has soared over recent years. This increased usage has led to a tremendous rise in injuries in children utilizing these recreational activities. Many of the injuries occur in younger children who may not possess the motor and cognitive skills necessary to safely engage in these activities. These activities lead to a number of head and extremity injuries, most of which can be attenuated by the use of protective gear such as helmets and protective padding.


CONCLUSIONS
Understanding the nature of these injuries can lead to advocacy and hopefully legislation to prevent further injuries from occurring.
Levine
Deborah
D
New York University School of Medicine/Bellevue Hospital Center, Pediatrics and Emergency Medicine, Bellevue Hospital, New York, NY 10016, USA. mlevine336@aol.com
D000293:Adolescent; D001265:Athletic Injuries / Q000209:etiology* / Q000517:prevention & control*; D002648:Child; D006801:Humans; D015541:Off-Road Motor Vehicles; D013177:Sports; D019876:Sports Equipment / Q000009:adverse effects*