18 die in ATV crashes over Memorial weekend

WASHINGTON (AP) — At least 18 people — five of them children — died in crashes involving all-terrain vehicles over the Memorial Day weekend, and federal safety officials expect more deaths in coming months.

The 18 deaths were nearly double the average for other weekends in May, according to estimates by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. The five children were 16 or younger.

With summer drawing near, commission spokesman Scott Wolfson expects more people to be riding ATVs, leading to more deaths and injuries unless riders follow basic safety guidelines:

• No tandem riding.

• Stick to off-road venues and away from roads or highways.

• Always wear a helmet.