The Yamaha Rhino ATV (all terrain vehicle) is a popular choice for those who enjoy outdoor recreational activity. The dangers of ATVs, however, are becoming more widely known. Billed as fun vehicles the whole family can enjoy, ATVs are being criticized more and more by many groups. Some of the noted groups speaking out against the dangers of ATVs include the American Academy of Pediatrics, Safe Kids Worldwide and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

ATV Industry Cover-up: Two Hidden Dangers the Industry May Not Want You to Know About

ATV Designs are Flawed: One of the leading dangers of ATVs, such as the Yamaha Rhino, is in its very design. Designed to fit in the back of a pickup truck, the Yamaha Rhino ATV has a narrow wheel base coupled with a high center of gravity. This makes this model and others like it particularly susceptible to tipping over. That is especially treacherous when riding models such as the two-seater Yamaha Rhino. To explain, the Yamaha Rhino ATV is bigger than most models. This means that if it tips over, the injuries are likely to be more severe than those that would occur on lighter models. In the case of children, it can literally crush them to death.

ATVs are Not Properly Outfitted with Safety Equipment: Most ATVs are not properly outfitted with safety equipment. This leaves riders open to more severe injuries in case of an accident. In the case of children, who tend not to want to wear safety equipment anyway, this can lead to preventable injuries. For example, some two-seater Yamaha Rhinos don't have any doors, safety handles or other safety gear. While this may appeal to the carefree side of young and older riders alike, safety experts point out that it is an accident waiting to happen.

Often severe injuries occur on a Yamaha Rhino when drivers and passengers instinctively put their arms and legs outside of the vehicles when they tip in order to brace for a fall. Consequently, many deaths and catastrophic injuries have resulted from riding a Yamaha Rhino ATV.

YAMAHA RHINO ATV: Safety Tips for You and Your Child

Regulate Engine Size: Many experts urge consumers to limit engine size, especially if children will be using the ATV. We know now that ATVs with an engine larger than 90 cubic centimeters should not be ridden by younger, carefree riders. It's just too risky. Wear Protective Gear: Wearing safety equipment is probably the best way to stay safe on ATVs. This is particularly true in the case of models such as the two-seater Yamaha Rhino, which often has no doors. Protective gear that should be worn includes helmets, goggles and over-the-ankle boots to protect against burns.