MARICOPA, AZ -- An all terrain vehicle accident sent two people to a Valley hospital --one with serious injuries -- on Saturday afternoon.
According to Maricopa fire department spokesman Brad Pitassi, the accident happened about 4 p.m. near the Maricopa-Casa Grande Highway and Anderson Road.
When rescue crews arrived at the scene they learned the ATV accident involved two riders. One of the riders had apparently walked about a half mile to get help while the other remained at the accident scene.
Pitassi said fire department crews had to hike to the site due to difficult terrain.
They treated two males in their early 20s at the scene. One of the men reportedly had serious hip and back injures, while the other was treated for a possible head injury.
One patient was air-lifted to Maricopa Medical center in Phoenix while the other was transported to the same hospital by ground ambulance, according to Pitassi.
He said neither was wearing a helmet.
There were no details regarding what caused the accident.
Pitassi said the Maricopa Fire Department reminds ATV riders to wear a helmet and carry plenty of water.
He said "the US Consumer Products Safety Commission states, 'Many ATV injuries are head injuries. Wearing a helmet may reduce the severity of these injuries. Select a motorcycle or other motorized sports helmet and make sure the helmet is certified by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and/or the Snell Memorial Foundation. In addition, wear over-the-ankle boots, goggles, gloves, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt to protect against cuts, abrasions, and other injuries from rocks, trees, and other debris.'
