Clinical Research Spotlight – Dr. Andrew Bernard

Andrew Bernard, MD, a trauma surgeon at the University of Kentucky Medical Center, is investigating the crash mechanics of All Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) in an effort to establish guidelines to lower the likelihood of a child or adult being injured on an ATV.

Accidents resulting from the use of ATVs are a leading cause of youth injury in the United States, with more than 170 deaths reported each year. In addition, ATV recreation is the fastest growing motor sport in the US.

According to Dr. Bernard, the importance of establishing guidelines to ensure proper fit in both children and adults is essential to proper operation and prevention of crashes. Current ATV guidelines match only engine size to specific age categories.

As Dr. Bernard explains, "There is little scientific
understanding of how ATV crashes occur. Does the child roll
it, run into something with it, is it a speed or control issue?
Does it have to do with the width of the wheel base, not being able to adequately depress the brake lever, can the child see far enough forward from his or her torso?"

Drawing upon help from researchers in other disciplines across the university, such as engineering and biodynamics, Dr. Bernard conducted an exploratory study on variables related to ATV crashes, which was completed just this past summer. His research team constructed a variable incline ramp which simulated riding over varying terrain, and it also used a motion capture camera system to record body size and position measurements to less than one millimeter of accuracy.

The findings from this preliminary study were astounding. It found that seven out of eight children ages six to eleven did not meet the current guidelines for proper fit on an ATV, and youth ages twelve to fifteen may be oversized. Dr. Bernard and his research team presented these results to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in November 2008.

Dr. Bernard's future interests include an even more expanded focus on multiple variables related to crashes, and he would like to continue this research with even more sophisticated equipment that simulates riding on an ATV. Dr. Bernard hopes that ultimately his research will prevent injuries and save lives by prompting changes in ATV design, training and operation.