Yuma – Nearly every year, YRMC’s emergency department treats and stabilizes nearly 1,300 potentially life-threatening injuries. The hospital shares that more than 70% of his injuries are from car accidents, and 26% of them are from off-road accidents.

YRMC shares tips for staying safe during desert and dune season.

• Drivers and passengers must wear helmets at all times. Goggles are recommended.
• Consider wearing a chest protector. This also applies to children. Jumping out and being thrown over the handlebars can lead to internal injury.
• Drivers should consider carrying a toolkit with a few basic items such as tire pressure gauges, tape, a multi-function screwdriver, and a first aid kit to reduce or treat minor injuries .
• Do not ride alone. For safety, always ride with at least one other vehicle.
• Ride only within your abilities and choose an ATV or vehicle appropriate for your skill level.
• If you want to ride with multiple riders in one vehicle, make sure your ATV is designed to carry passengers.
• Do not drink alcohol or use controlled substances while driving.
• Make sure the lights are working and turned on at night.
• When reaching the top of a hill or slope, make sure it is safe to pass.
• Note the terrain. Watch out for uneven ground that can cause rolls and pops.
• When riding side by side, do not put your hands out of the vehicle. This will avoid possible fractures or amputations in the event of an accident.