posted byLA Attorneys GroupAugust 25, 2021
From off-road bikes to ATVs, off-road vehicles (or ATVs) are exciting and thrilling. ATV accidents can cause serious personal injury and recovery can take weeks or months.
An all-terrain vehicle (ATV) is defined as a mechanical off-road vehicle created to run on four low-pressure or non-pneumatic tires, the seat is designed to allow the operator to ride, and the handlebar is used to control the steering.
As a deceptive name, ATVs aren't designed to handle all types of terrain. These leisure machines usually have functions of fun, vacation, and off-road voyage.
Regrettably, many people get on the ATV without a proper understanding of how the car works and what to do in an emergency.
Below are some facts about the unseen hazards of ATV accidents offered by the Consumer Product Safety Commission.
Every year, 135,000 people are injured in ATV accidents. More than 700 people die each year in these accidents. About one-third of people who die in ATV accidents each year are under the age of 16.
In this article we will discuss following things:
Whether using the ATV as a work machine on a ranch or farm, or as a vehicle to discover remote areas, accidents can undoubtedly occur. Four-wheeled ATVs are often quite sturdy, but depending on the terrain, the ATV could tip over or roll over, seriously injuring the rider.
The following tend to be some of the most common causes of ATV accidents:
Accidents from driving on paved roads
All-terrain vehicles are not designed for road use and can cause trouble when driving on flat sidewalks.
Driving on these surfaces can trigger the vehicle to tip over and the driver to fall out of the vehicle.
Riding with two passengers
Another thing that ATV isn't suitable for traveling with two passengers. If there are passengers behind, the ATV is not strong enough to accommodate two people and someone could be thrown out of the car.
Driving with the person behind can cause the driver and passengers to fall, the vehicle to tip over, and in the worst case, the vehicle fixing a rider underneath.
Accidents with Children
Driving an ATV requires some physical strength. The child's muscles are still developed and may not be able to control the vehicle.
In addition to physical fitness, children also lack the motor and cognitive abilities needed to steer the vehicle and maintain attention.
As children ride ATVs, the risk increases, and serious injuries (such as head injuries) have been reported among drivers in this age group.
Even if you comply with federal and state laws and regulatory standards for off-road vehicles, you could still be seriously injured or killed in ATV accident.
The most common personal injuries after an ATV accident are:
These are some of the most serious personal injuries that can be lethal if not treated instantly.
After suffering a personal injury in an ATV accident, you need to take several steps as soon as possible to get the best results.
See a Doctor
You should see a doctor even if you think you are okay. ATV accidents can cause serious spinal and brain injuries. It may take several days for symptoms to appear.
Your doctor can check if you can be seriously injured and give you warning signs that you need to pay attention to. He can also record the accident so that you can provide the accident certificate to the insurance company.
Take pictures of the accident scene
Obtain photos of the crash site, all vehicles involved in the accident and the injured. These photos will help the accident attorney decide the reason of the accident.
Notify the insurance company of the accident and file a claim.
Get the names of any witnesses
If the accident involves another ATV, you will need the driver's name and number, insurance information, and the ATV brand and model.
Don’t talk about the accident
You should not talk about the incident with anyone other than law enforcement officials and ATV attorneys.
Please do not provide detailed information to the insurance adjuster.
Do not sign any papers
You do not want to be held responsible for the accident. Do not sign documents or sign disclosures before discussing the case with your lawyer.
One of the main question people ask themselves when involved in ATV accidents is who they can turn to for help.
An ATV is a car, but personal car insurance rarely covers ATV-related accidents. Some firms offer ATV insurance. If the rider chooses to purchase ATV insurance, filing a claim with the company may be the best option.
But, in various cases, individuals do not have a certain ATV insurance policy, particularly if they use the vehicle only on a frequent or seasonal basis.
If there is an accident on your personal property and you don't have ATV insurance, you can apply for homeowners’ insurance. Though, all insurance policies are different, and you need to check your insurance policy to determine if a particular insurance covers your claim.
A qualified attorney can also assist you review the circumstances of the accident and consider your insurance policy to determine if you are eligible for home insurance.
Follow the tips below to avoid accidents on your ATV.
ATVs are fun, but not toys. Care should be taken when using these vehicles, particularly when children and adolescents are participating.
ATV injuries can be avoided with appropriate function and protective equipment. If you continue to be injured, be sure to treat the injury and see a doctor as soon as feasible.
Do you have questions about ATV treatment or other injuries? Contact us at LA ATTORNEYS.
This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website.
