CPSC eyes side-by-side recreational vehicles

WASHINGTON -- The federal government is taking a closer look at off-road recreational vehicles, known as ROVs, after dozens of deaths.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission has voted to write mandatory rules to regulate the four-wheel vehicles, following more than 100 deaths since 2003. Riders have suffered scores of injuries, too -- some leading to amputations.

ROVs, also called side-by-sides, are two-passenger motorized vehicles designed for drivers 16 years and older. They resemble a cross between a rugged-looking golf cart and a miniature-Jeep, and have a roll cage -- metal bars framing the cab.

The industry proposed voluntary regulations, but CPSC staffers said they fell short. Agency staff have expressed concern about the vehicles and rollover risks.

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