CLAYPOOL – A 13-year-old was hospitalized Friday after being involved in an ATV accident. According to a press release from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, conservation officers are investigating an ATV accident that occurred at 3:30 p.m. Friday at 466 E. CR 700S, Claypool. Mason Johnson, 13, who resides at the address where the accident occurred, was riding an ATV on his property when he attempted to jump a ramp, and upon landing the ATV nose dived into the ground and flipped over, throwing Johnson from the vehicle. Johnson’s head contacted the ground. He was wearing a helmet and goggles, which investigating officer Nathan Hooley credits with dramatically lessening his injuries and possibly even saving his life. Johnson was treated at Kosciusko Community Hospital initially and diagnosed with a concussion. He was later transferred to a Fort Wayne Hospital for further tests and treatment. Hooley stated “Mason’s injuries, while serious, were without a doubt lessened by his wearing of a protective helmet.” One of the most common injuries sustained in ATV accidents are head injuries where the victim does not wear a helmet and is seriously injured or worse. As school is set to let out across the state and the warm weather is upon us, ATV activity and use will sky rocket. Accidents and injuries do not have to, however, according to the press release. “Wear your helmet, ride responsibly, and ride with a friend are just a few tips to make your summer ATV experience safe and enjoyable,” the press release states.
