141,000 ATVs For Kids, Teens Recalled Over Risk Of 'Injury Or Death'

Maxtrade is recalling several models of its all-terrain vehicles (ATV) for kids and teens because they don't meet the federal mandatory safety standards. This can pose a "risk of serious injury or death."

The recalled units are intended for children aged 6, 10 and 12 or older, as well as for teens, a recall alert on U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) website read.

The units don't meet the "maximum speed limitations" for vehicles to be used by young people. Moreover, in "certain" units, the parking brakes also "do not prevent the movement of the vehicle."

"Consumers must stop using the models included in this recall, continued use carries the risk of serious injury or death," the company noted.

There have been no reports of injuries or incidents related to the recalled products so far.

The recall affects Maxtrade's Coolster Mountopz ATVs with model numbers 3050-B, 3050-C, 3125-B2, 3125-CX-2, 3125-CX-3, 3125-XR8-U2, 3150-CXC, 3150-DX-4, 3175-S2 and 3175-U. Photos of the affected units are available on the company's website.

The products were sold at various stores nationwide and also online. Those who have an affected unit should contact Maxtrade at 866-236-8993 or through email at Coolster.info@gmail.com to schedule a free repair.

"Do not repair the product yourself," the company stressed, urging customers to stop using the units even if they appear to be safe.

Kids and ATVs

There are so far no federal age limits on riding ATVs but experts do not recommend anyone younger than 16 years old to use them as operating these vehicles requires skill and quick thinking, the Nemours Foundation noted. Those younger than 16 years old don't usually have the physical strength or the decision-making skills that are needed to operate such vehicles safely.

As such, before getting an ATV for one's child, it would be best for parents to consider the child's "physical and emotional development," Pennsylvania State University (PSU) said. This means assessing factors such as their physical strength, visual perception and even whether they can move the handlebars to the right or left completely or squeeze the brake lever with one hand. Another important factor to consider is their self-control, in that they should be aware that their actions have consequences.

"Parents should recognize that all children are different in maturity levels at a particular age," PSU added. "Just because a child is big for their age and can reach the controls of the ATV does not mean that they will use mature judgment in dealing with the many circumstances that may occur while riding the ATV."