ATV Accidents

ATV and Recreational Accident Victim Defense

ATVs (all terrain vehicles) have become increasingly popular recreational vehicles in the United States in recent years. In addition to their sporting uses, ATVs are also used by law enforcement and forestry officers to assist with rescue efforts and to facilitate transportation in off-road areas. Unfortunately ATV passengers are frequently involved in accidents, and have the potential to incur serious personal injury or even death in such situations. The most common injuries sustained by ATV riders include:

• Burn injury
• Spinal cord injury
• Brain injury

Understand the Risks

It is crucial for riders of ATVs and other recreational vehicles to know the risks these vehicles pose in order to best protect themselves. The high rate of fatalities and serious injuries associated with ATV accidents can be attributed to a number of factors. Before 1987, ATVs were commonly built with three wheels, which made them especially prone to rollover accidents. Though the U.S. Justice Department insisted that all ATVs produced after that year were built on four wheels, no steps were taken to remove the unsafe, three-wheeled ATVs from common use. Another common factor associated with ATV accidents is that drivers who use these vehicles for recreational purposes often do not take proper safety precautions. Because ATV passengers do not have the protection of a vehicle compartment in the event of a collision, it is especially important that they wear helmets at all times and exercise extreme caution while operating these vehicles. The extreme terrain that is frequently covered by ATV riders creates an additional threat to rider safety. Unfortunately, many ATV riders are seeking the adrenaline rush that comes from completing dangerous maneuvers at high speeds, and are not aware of the dangers presented by reckless ATV driving. Furthermore, the tragic truth is that many ATV operators who are injured in accidents are intoxicated, or worse, they are children who should not be riding ATVs in the first place.

What to Do after an ATV Accident

ATVs and other recreational vehicles are meant to be a source of excitement and pleasure for riders, but their unsafe nature often leads to tragic accidents. If you or someone you know is involved in an ATV accident, it is important not to move victims if you suspect a spinal cord injury may have been suffered. Contact emergency medical assistance as soon as possible, and take the time to document all the details associated with the accident. If an ATV accident has caused you or someone you love injury or wrongful death, you need the counsel of an experienced personal injury attorney. The lawyers at Fitts Zehl, LLP & Mark & Associates, P.C. understand the perils involved with ATV use, and are prepared to defend the rights of victims and fight to ensure they receive compensation for their injuries. Contact Fitts Zehl, LLP & Mark & Associates, P.C. in Texas to have your ATV accident claim reviewed by a member of our team at no cost to you.