ATV Accidents
Three and four-wheeled motor vehicles, called all terrain vehicles, or ATVs, are usually used for riding off-road, both for rescue measures and recreational use. Unfortunately, many riders of ATVs suffer serious injuries in ATV accidents every year. There are many states that do not require training, a license or age limit to operate all terrain vehicles. Adult-sized ATVs can weigh up to 750 pounds and can travel at speeds up to 75 miles per hour. When ATV accidents happen, riders can suffer severe and fatal injuries. If negligence is involved, Florida ATV Accident Lawyers can help sort though the legal matters surrounding such an accident.
Common Causes for All Terrain Vehicle Accidents
ATV accidents can be caused by many different factors. Florida ATV Accident Lawyers are experienced in cases that include the following:
shutterbugger/istock/thinkstock Inexperienced drivers
- Protective gear not worn
- Incorrect positioning on the vehicle
- Too many people at once on the ATV
- Operating the vehicle while drinking or using drugs
- Driving an ATV at speeds that are unsafe
Most all terrain vehicle accidents are caused by inexperienced drivers and the use of alcohol or drugs. According to reports, inexperienced drivers are 13 times more likely to be the cause of an ATV accident during their first month of using the vehicle when compared to riders that are more experienced. Alcohol and the use of drugs account for approximately 30 percent of ATV accidents. DWI/DUI laws do apply to ATV accidents. While head injuries are the major cause of fatalities in ATV accidents, other common injuries are fractures and bone breaks, abdominal injuries, lacerations and abrasions, burns and injuries to the neck and spinal cord. ATV accidents can be prevented when important steps are taken such as wearing the proper protective gear such as clothing and helmets, obtain proper training before operating an ATV and operating the vehicle in a responsible manner.
ATV Recalls and Defects
ATV manufacturers stopped making three-wheeled ATVs in 1987 after so many rollover accidents occurred involving three-wheeled ATVs. Thus, manufacturers then began making four-wheeled ATVs that provided more stability. However, an estimated 2.4 million defective three-wheeled ATVs are still in use today that were never recalled.
Finding Florida ATV Accident Lawyers
Even though many all terrain vehicle crashes are caused by driver errors, some ATV crashes are due to defects. All terrain vehicle defects can occur during the building process. When manufacturers know of the possible hazards, but fail to properly warn the public of such hazards, they could be held liable for the accident. Design defects occur when vehicles are dangerous because of product design errors. Since 2000, many ATVs have been recalled and many people have won a defective product lawsuit against manufacturers of all terrain vehicles.
If you have been involved in an ATV accident and have questions about filing a claim, contact Florida Attorney Group. We will match you with skilled Florida ATV Accident Lawyers to see if you have a valid case. Our affiliated Florida ATV Accident Lawyers will determine the best course of action to take to get you the successful outcomes you deserve.
