All-terrain vehicles are a popular type of recreational vehicle used for both work purposes and play. They can be handy tools for hauling, transportation and more, or they can be a fun way to ride a trail, explore nature and get to places that are not easily accessible. Despite their popularity, these vehicles can be hazardous, and riding can be risky.
A study of these types of vehicles found that they were responsible for thousands of deaths and tens of thousands of injuries over the last few decades. The injuries associated with ATV accidents are often serious or fatal, likely because these vehicles are not as stable as other vehicles. They are more likely to flip, and there is nothing to shield you, whether a driver or passenger, from an impact.
TBI risk
One of the most common types of injuries suffered in ATV accidents is a traumatic brain injury. Concussions, neck injuries, neurological injuries and more can result in permanent damage for an ATV accident victim. One risk associated with brain and head injuries is that that the victim may not appear to be injured at all. ATV accidents are also associated with various types of fractures, broken bones, abdominal injuries and chest injuries.
Staying safe on an ATV
ATVs have a high chance of flipping or rolling over, and they are quite heavy. In some cases, the vehicle will pin the driver and passenger underneath it, resulting in serious injuries. Some of the ways ATV riders can avoid injuries include the following:
- Wear a helmet and protective gear when driving an ATV.
- Operators should know how to safely operate the vehicle.
- ATV owners and operators should receive safety training.
- Drivers should avoid carrying passengers.
- Drivers should carry a communication device when operating an ATV.
Individuals who suffered injuries in an ATV accident could be suffering due to the negligent or reckless actions of another party. A victim may have grounds to pursue legal action after a serious recreational vehicle accident.
What should victims do?
After an ATV accident, it may be worthwhile for you or any Texas victim to seek a consultation with an experienced personal injury attorney. If there are grounds for a civil claim, prompt action is important as evidence can degrade and disappear over time. Accident victims and family members have the right to seek appropriate compensation if they suffered harm due to the actions or decisions of someone else.