This column reflects the opinion of the writer. Learn about the differences between a news story and an opinion column.

ATV users are irresponsible

Wed., Nov. 6, 2013

I have to disagree with Bob Cahill (Oct. 21) when he says concerns over all-terrain vehicle use are overstated. My granddaughter and her parents incurred $400,000 in medical and doctor bills for a broken back due to an ATV accident. The owner of the ATV, who also owned the property, had no insurance. I don’t believe they are self-policing. They may be respectable, but not responsible. If you want to see the damage ATVs can do, check out the Columbia Basin sand dunes area. Go there on Memorial Day when there are thousands of ATVers in the dunes. Over the last 30 years, the dunes have disappeared.

Mike Garland

Mead

Letters Policy

The Spokesman-Review invites original letters on local topics of public interest. Your letter must adhere to the following rules:

No more than 250 words
We reserve the right to reject letters that are not factually correct, racist or are written with malice.
We cannot accept more than one letter a month from the same writer.
With each letter, include your daytime phone number and street address.
The Spokesman-Review retains the nonexclusive right to archive and re-publish any material submitted for publication.

Unfortunately, we don’t have space to publish all letters received, nor are we able to acknowledge their receipt. (Learn more.)

Submit letters using any of the following:

Our online form: Submit your letter here
Mail: Letters to the Editor
The Spokesman-Review
999 W. Riverside Ave.
Spokane, WA 99201
Email: letters@spokesman.com
Fax: (509) 459-5098
Phone: (509) 459-5403