Another NY kid dies on an ATV

The Albany Times-Union is reporting today that another child — in Knox, NY — has died after crashing on a 4-wheel All-terrain vehicle.

The crash reportedly happened just hours after the vehicle was delivered to the family. 13-year-old James Wyatt Spencer wasn’t wearing a helmet or a chest-protector.

(Many of the children killed by these machines die when their lungs are crushed, or when they are suffocated under the weight of an overturned machine.)

I’ve reported a lot about ATV safety over the years and I have to admit: I just don’t get.

There are plenty of recreational activities available for our children. Some actually require physical exercise. And they’re not deadly dangerous.

So here’s my question to parents: Why buy these machines for kids? Why not a bicycle? A skateboard?

Even if you love 4-wheeling as an adult — and are willing to making informed decisions about the risks — why put your kid on one?

What possible advantage or fun could outweigh the risk that your beautiful, cherished child will be killed or permanently crippled?

In 2007, 40,000 children were treated in emergency rooms nationwide for ATV injuries; 107 died.

Remember: respectful posts only.

I know some of our readers aren’t big 4-wheeler fans, but no flaming, no nastiness. I’d especially like to hear from parents who allow their kids to ride ATVs.