(The following is from the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office:)
CAMPTI, La. — An 8-year-old child was injured in a crash involving an all-terrain vehicle and a car Friday afternoon in Campti, according to the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office.
On Jan. 3 at approximately 3:15 p.m., deputies assigned to the NPSO Patrol Operations Bureau and Natchitoches Regional Medical Center EMS responded to NATCOM 911 Center reports of a two-vehicle crash with injuries involving an all-terrain vehicle and a car at the intersection of Allen and Lake streets in Campti.
Deputies arrived on scene finding an 8-year-old child suffering from what appeared to be moderate injuries.
Air medical support was placed on standby.
Deputies say the preliminary investigation revealed that the 8-year-old was operating a 2024 Yahama Grizzly 4-wheel all-terrain vehicle traveling on Allen Street in Campti. At the same time, a 2016 Ford Mustang was traveling west on Lake Street near Allen Street. The child failed to negotiate a stop sign at the intersection, striking the Ford Mustang. As a result of this action, the child was ejected from the all-terrain vehicle.
The child did not have any safety equipment or a helmet on.
The child was transported from the scene by Natchitoches Regional Medical Center EMS to a north Louisiana trauma center with moderate, non-life-threatening injuries.
The crash was investigated by NPSO Lt. Brandon Smith and Sgt. D. Cabellero.
Deputies say even though we like our children to have fun, it is illegal to operate off-road vehicles on state and parish highways.
Deputies remind the public to prioritize safety when children are riding all-terrain vehicles (ATVs).
Given the risks associated with ATVs, especially for young riders, it’s important to follow certain safety guidelines to reduce accidents and injuries. Some key safety tips include:
- Age-appropriate vehicles: Ensure that the ATV is suitable for the child’s age and size. Many ATVs are designed for specific age groups, and riding an ATV that is too large or powerful can be dangerous.
- Proper gear: Children should always wear the proper safety gear, including a helmet, gloves, long pants, long sleeves and sturdy boots. The helmet should be DOT-certified and fit properly.
- Supervision: Children should always be supervised when riding ATVs, especially if they are not experienced riders. An adult should be present to guide and help them stay safe.
- Training: Before allowing a child to ride an ATV, it’s important to ensure they have received proper training. There are ATV safety courses available that teach essential skills like controlling the vehicle and navigating different terrains.
- Safe riding areas: Encourage children to ride in designated, safe areas such as ATV parks or private lands, where there are fewer obstacles or hazards. Avoid busy roads, highways or other high-traffic areas.
- Speed limits: Always ensure that children operate the ATV at a safe speed. Excessive speed is one of the leading causes of ATV-related injuries.
- Riding solo: Avoid allowing children to ride ATVs with passengers unless the vehicle is specifically designed for two or more people. Many ATVs are built for single riders, and additional weight can compromise stability and safety.
- Maintenance: Keep the ATV in good working condition, regularly checking tires, brakes, lights and other safety features. A mechanical failure can lead to accidents.
By taking these precautions, both children and parents can help ensure a safer ATV riding experience. Deputies are urging families to be mindful of these safety tips to prevent accidents and injuries, especially during times when children are more likely to be riding. Accidents can happen fast!!
We hope this child has a speedy and full recovery.