The Dangerous Truth About All-Terrain Vehicles  

All-terrain vehicles, or ATVs, are often used for recreational adventures off the beaten path. While the name suggests that they can be used on all types of terrain, this is not necessarily the case.

This is particularly true when reckless, or inexperienced drivers, operate these vehicles in a manner that is unsafe to both the driver and others in the vicinity. Unfortunately, if the person operating the ATV does not fully understand the risks associated with the vehicle, and what to do in case of an emergency, a fun-filled adventure can turn tragic very quickly.

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, the following statistics show how dangerous ATVs can be:

• Each year, approximately 135,000 people are injured in ATV accidents.
• More than 700 people are killed every year in accidents involving ATVs.
• Nearly one third of the people fatally injured in ATV accidents are teens under the age of 16.
• Many of these tragic accidents could have been prevented, if the drivers followed basic safety rules and avoided unsafe driving behaviors, like speeding and driving recklessly.

Because ATVs are a recreational vehicle, drivers do not always take them as seriously as they should. From drunk driving and reckless hill-climbing to riding the vehicle with more passengers than it is designed to hold, this can be a recipe for disaster if the ATV flips or rolls over.

Defective parts – including tires, clutch, and throttle – can also cause serious problems. If a defective part caused an accident, you may want to consider filing a product liability claim.

Safety Tips to Follow When Riding an ATV

• Always wear the appropriate safety gear, including helmets, goggles, boots and gloves. These will protect you in the event of an accident.
• Before going for a ride on an ATV, inspect the vehicle, including the tires and rims.
• Never ride alone.
• Stay on designated trails to avoid dangerous, unsafe terrain.
• Stay alert and aware of your surroundings at all times so that you can react quickly as necessary.

While riding an ATV can be a fun and exhilarating activity, it is important that riders understand how dangerous they can be if they do not make safety a priority. There are laws that have been put in place in order to protect riders and others in the area, and these laws should be obeyed at all times.

Like motorcycles, there is nothing protecting the rider from injuries if there is an accident. Therefore, even relatively minor crashes can cause serious, life-threatening injuries. An experienced car accident lawyer can provide the skilled legal counsel you need to pursue a personal injury claim.

Baltimore Car Accident Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton Seek Compensation for Victims of ATV Accidents

If you or a loved one has been injured in an ATV accident, do not hesitate to contact the Baltimore car accident lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton. Our experienced team will work tirelessly to investigate the details of your case and secure the maximum financial compensation you deserve for any injuries you may have sustained. To schedule a free, confidential consultation, call us today at 800-547-4LAW (4529) or contact us online.

Our offices are located in Baltimore, Columbia, Glen Burnie, and Towson, allowing us to represent car accident victims in Maryland, including those in Anne Arundel County, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Harford County, Howard County, Montgomery County, Maryland’s Western Counties, Prince George’s County, Queen Anne’s County, Southern Maryland, and the Eastern Shore, as well as the communities of Catonsville, Essex, Halethorpe, Middle River, Rosedale, Gwynn Oak, Brooklandville, Dundalk, Pikesville, Nottingham, Windsor Mill, Lutherville, Timonium, Sparrows Point, Ridgewood, and Elkridge.