MEARS, Mich. — An 18-year-old ATV rider from Marshall was flown to a hospital after a crash at Silver Lake Sand Dune's ORV area Sunday afternoon.
According to an Oceana County Sheriff's Office traffic crash report, the single-vehicle wreck happened just after 12:45 p.m. Sunday.
The ATV rider from Marshall climbed up a large hill at a high speed, the deputy investigating the crash said, when she crested the hill and went airborne.
When she landed on the other side of the hill, the ATV's nose dove into the sand, causing the rider to hit the handlebars and toss her over them.
Emergency crews airlifted her to a Grand Rapids area hospital for treatment.
Multiple fatal and serious injury crashes at the park this year are shining a light on safety.
New safety signs were installed in August to remind ORV enthusiasts about safe riding habits.
In May, a crash in the park left a mother of two dead.
Three months later in early August, a crash between a dirt bike and a Jeep sent a man flying into the air. Despite serious injuries, Oceana County Sheriff Craig Mast said the dirt bike rider is expected to recover.
On Sept. 1, a 20-year-old Coopersville man died in a crash in the ORV area. A 14-year-old passenger was also hurt.
The DNR said the park's 450-acre scramble area has different terrain from the state's more traditional ORV trails and routes, so it's important for riders to keep these safety tips in mind:
- “Keep your head on a swivel” – make a concerted effort to scan and observe in all directions while on the dunes.
- Always practice situational awareness – be aware of the potential hazards that could affect you and other riders.
- Know what is beyond the crest of a hill before traveling up and over it.
- Always operate within your abilities and your vehicle’s capabilities.
- Keep your speed in check.
- Keep your wheels on the ground.
- If you plan to stop/park, choose spots where you are visible 360 degrees (avoid blind spots).
- Don’t “show off” for friends and family members or spectators.
- Stay inside your vehicle while in the ORV area.
- Be aware of any dune-riding fatigue you may experience – most crashes and incidents on the dunes occur later in the day.
