Willits, California — June 23, 2012

William Nowlin, 42, was killed Saturday evening while riding an ATV on private property just off of U.S. Route 101 near Ryan Creek Road. The California Highway Patrol stated that Mr. Nowlin died before officials could arrive, and that friends only called for help well after the accident.

No other injuries were reported in this accident. It is not known what cause the accident or if Mr. Nowlin was wearing a helmet at the time of the accident.

According to the Current Orthopaedic Practice Research Journal, each year ATV accidents produce approximately 200 deaths and 14,000 injuries. Excess speed, alcohol, driver inexperience, and poor judgment are the leading causes of accidents.

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