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Common ATV Accident Injuries

Tuesday, December 8, 2009 by Clark W. Mason

The Dangers of ATVs

All-terrain vehicle (ATV) accidents can cause serious injuries and even death. Drivers of ATVs are particularly vulnerable because they are completely exposed. Many ATV accidents involve ‘rollovers’ that can crush the driver below the vehicle. As with any type of motor vehicle, drivers should take necessary safety precautions to reduce the risk of accidents.

Common causes of ATV accidentsReckless driving

People operating an ATV for the first time may feel tempted to drive recklessly due to the ability of ATVs to drive through rough terrain at relatively high speeds. ATV drivers should always remain conscious of their surroundings. Ditches, rocks, and puddles can send a driver flying over the handle-bars. Also, ATVs are not cars; they should not be driven on roads paved for normal motor vehicles and they should not be raced.

Children operating adult vehicles

A tragically high percentage of ATV deaths happen to children under the age of 16 years. Children typically lack the maturity to make responsible decisions while riding ATVs unsupervised. ATVs come in different sizes. Children should be absolutely prevented from riding adult-sized ATVs.

Riding with a passenger

Unlike UTVs, which have a seat for a passenger, ATVs only have one seat for the driver. Sometimes, operators of ATVs assume that they can bring a passenger along for the ride. This can lead to risky and reckless driving behavior that can increase the likelihood that a driver will lose control of the vehicle or that the passenger will be seriously injured.

Defective product

Unfortunately, ATVs and UTVs have a history of manufacturing defects that have been responsible for injuries and even death. For example, in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission, Yamaha agreed to suspend sales of Rhino models due to safety concerns.

Weather and terrain

Sometimes, drivers of ATVs and UTVs think that their vehicles are indestructible. Even though these vehicles are more suited for rough terrain than other types of vehicles, an unnoticed rock or a ditch can still cause rollovers and serious injuries. Additionally, poor weather conditions—such as rain—can cause an operator to lose control of the vehicle.

Other Resources:

ATV Accidents

ATV Injury

ATV Death

Posted at 14:04 PM

Topic: Personal Injury