ATVs are a popular leisure vehicle found all over the United States. They may have 3 or 4 wheels and are motorized and are capable of being driven on a variety of different terrains. ATVs are not just used for fun activities but sometimes they are used in rescues as they offer fast and simple access to areas far from normal roads. These multi use vehicles are not always safe and there are many accidents which involve serious injuries.
Children are the most at risk
Children aged under 16 years are most likely to be injured in an ATV accident, as this is a vehicle that in most states does not ask for a license or expect any sort of training. Also, there is no age requirement when operating an ATV. An average ATV can weigh more than 750 pounds and can reach speeds of up to 75 mph, which could be quite dangerous if operated by a ten year old. There are certain suggested power ratings depending on age which are:
50-70cc – from aged 6 to aged 11
70-90cc – from aged 12 to 16
90cc – over 16
What causes an ATV accident
This could be due to:
- An inexperienced driver
- Overcrowding on a single vehicle
- Not wearing protective headgear or clothing
- Speeding
- Driving while drinking or drug taking
Statistically, a rider who lacks experience has a 13X greater chance of causing an ATV accident in the first four months of driving than a driver who has, at least, some experience.
ATV accident injuries
Head injuries make up the main cause of fatalities in ATV collisions. If helmets were used more often this would not be the case.
Other often encountered injuries are
- spinal cord injuries
- Head injuries
- Internal injuries
- Fractured and broken bones
- Cuts and bruises
- Lacerations to all parts of the body
Three-Wheeler Accidents
The three-wheeled ATV was involved in so many countless rollover accidents that the U.S. Justice Department filed a lawsuit stating that ATVs and those who manufactured them broke the Consumer Product Safety Act.
In the late 1980’s, ATV producers ceased the production of the 3 wheeler version and started producing 4 wheelers instead, which offer more stability.
Currently, there are around 2.5 million three-wheelers that are in circulation, but were never taken off the road. They are very dangerous and are accident risks.
If you, or one of your children, was driving an ATV and had an accident, then you may be able to put in a compensation claim for an accident that was not of your making.
It is only an experienced accident lawyer who can decide if you have good case to file for a compensation claim. Once the decision has been made then the lawyer will do all the work compiling a fair compensation claim. Included in the claim is an amount to cover for loss of income, the cost of medical treatment and any emotional suffering that has occurred as a result of the accident.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident, learn how to protect your rights with a free consultation. Contact an experienced Car Accident Lawyer.
