The recalled vehicles were sold by authorized dealers across the country from June 2007 through July 2009 and retailed for about $10,000. Bad Boy Enterprises has received 32 reports of unintended acceleration involving the vehicles since their appearance in the market.

According to the CPSC report, some of the incidents resulted in injuries such as “a fractured toe, rotator cuff injuries and sore muscles.” The agency advises all consumers to stop using the vehicles immediately and contact their Bad Boy Buggy dealer for a free repair.

Models included in the recall have serial numbers between 85004828 and 95010404, which are printed on a sticker in the driver’s side cubby. The Bad Boy Buggy Classic ATV is the only model included in the recall. The all-electric vehicles have an open, side-by-side design that requires occupants to sit on a bench.

Bad Boy Enterprises can be reached toll-free at (866) 678-6701 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday. The company’s website is http://www.badboyenterprises.com/.

Last week, the CPSC announced that it voted to publish an advance notice of proposed rulemaking (ANPR) to confront the safety issues commonly associated with recreational off-road vehicles (ROVs).

According to the CPSC, “the ANPR invites written comments from the public regarding the risks of injury associated with ROVs and ways in which these risks could be addressed. Following publication of the ANPR, the public will have 60 days to provide comments to the Commission. Comments can be submitted at www.regulations.gov.”

CPSC Chairman Inez Tenenbaum issued a brief statement on October 21, in which she said “the need for federal rulemaking on ROVs” comes from “not having a voluntary standard that effectively safeguards consumers.”

SOURCE: Yamaha Rhino Rollover › Bad Boy ATVs recalled after reports of unintended acceleration

Reports say that Rivers was driving on a path near South Chestnut Street and East Franklin Avenue in the Beulah community southeast of downtown Foley when he struck a wire that had been strung across the path. London sustained serious neck injuries when she hit the wire and was pronounced dead at the scene. Rivers also received serious neck injuries and was taken to South Baldwin Hospital for treatment. The older girl suffered no injuries and was released to family.

Authorities say the accident took place about 6:15. The incident is under investigation and no arrests have been made. Some reports say that the wire was strung between 2 posts, one on each side of the trail, bearing “no trespassing” signs.

London would have celebrated her fourth birthday next week.

According to government records, children represent 40% of all ATV-related injuries and deaths. More than 50 children are admitted to Alabama Children’s hospitals every year with injuries they received in an ATV rollover or other accident. The most common injuries associated with ATV accidents involve the head, face, and spine; traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries and paralysis, and fractures are some of the serious injuries children typically receive in ATV crashes.

ATV injuries and deaths have escalated sharply in the last couple of years as off-road vehicles become increasingly popular.

SOURCE: Yamaha Rhino Rollover › 3-year-old Alabama girl dies when ATV strikes a wire

According to the story, Rhino operators are discovering that side-by-side off-road vehicles such as theirs are technically classified as ORVs, which may be subject to different legislation than ATVs, including requiring operators to register the vehicle, wear a helmet and carry proof of insurance.

Provincial legislation draws a clear distinction between ATVs and ORVs, classifying an all-terrain vehicle as having saddle-seating designed for one person, and handlebars, while Rhinos are technically off-road vehicles – they have a steering wheel, bench seats, and are designed for up to four people.

A quick search for ORV and ATV regulations reveals that most U.S. states have various laws governing the operation of these types of vehicles, and also different ways of classifying them. Some states draw a clear distinction between ATVs and ORVs, while others are not as specific. Many times, the terms are used interchangeably.

In many states, an ATV or ORV must be titled – this is proof of ownership. Additionally, some states require that an off-road vehicle is registered for riding on public land and roads, and ATVs are only permitted on public land and roads that are clearly designated for use by off-highway vehicles (OHVs or ORVs).

According to information provided by the Alabama Department of Revenue, Motor Vehicle Division, in Alabama, any vehicle used on public roads must be registered, titled, and tagged by the Department of Revenue’s Motor Vehicle Division (MVD). However, there is an exemption for both ATVs and ORVs. If you have a vehicle used only on your own property or off-road, you do not have to register, title, or tag it.

Each state is different, so ATV and ORV owners should check with their state for distinctions and regulations.

SOURCE: Yamaha Rhino Rollover › ATV or ORV?