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"Go-carts are dangerous when youngsters who lack size, strength, experience or maturity are permitted to use these vehicles without adult supervision and safety equipment," Relyea-Chew said.

The primary cause of go-cart injuries among children is loss of control resulting in collisions with moving or stationary objects or ejection from the vehicle, according to Relyea-Chew. In addition, many of the go-carts don't offer suitable protection, such as seat belts. Some contain parts that can break off in a collision, exposed gears that can ensnare long hair, and oil and gasoline tanks that can cause burns.

"Get the facts about the dangers associated with go-cart use by children," she said. "If you then permit your child to use a go-cart, check for recall notices and follow manufacturers' recommendations for usage, age and size appropriateness. Use safety equipment--particularly full-face helmets, and never leave the child unsupervised. Go-carts are not toys."

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Contact: Maureen Morley
mmorley@rsna.org
630-590-7762
Radiological Society of North America
30-Nov-2005