There are more than 700 deaths and 100,000 injuries each year involving ATVs and other off-road vehicles, according to CPSC’s most recent data. By following the key safety tips below, hundreds of deaths and thousands of injuries related to ATV accidents can be prevented.

Stay Off of Paved Roads

ATVs are designed to be driven on off-road terrain and are difficult to control on paved roads where they are at risk of overturning or colliding with cars and trucks.

Never Allow Children Younger Than 16 on Adult ATV’s

More than 90 percent of ATV-related accidents involving children can be attributed to a lack of developmental skills needed to maneuver the faster, more powerful adult ATVs. Off-road vehicle accident attorneys suggest that children younger than 16 should be on one of the age-appropriate youth models, which are required to travel at lower speeds than adult ATVs and to have an adjustable speed limiter. All ATVs should be equipped with a label that indicates the manufacturer’s recommended age for that particular model. Children younger than 6 years of age should never be on any ATV — either as a driver or passenger.

Don’t Allow More People on the ATV It Allows

A single-rider ATV should only have one person on it—the driver. ATVs are designed for interactive riding. The driver must be able to shift his or her weight freely in all directions. Passengers can inhibit the driver’s ability to safely control the ATV and it could roll over or crash. Most ATVs sold today are single-rider ATVs, which are not equipped with handholds or footrests for passengers.

Always Wear a Helmet and Other Protective Gear

Wear helmets! The ATV Safety Institute recommends U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and/or the Snell Memorial Foundation (Snell) certified helmets. Riders should also wear goggles, gloves, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt, and over-the-ankle boots.

Get Hands-on Training

Many deaths and injuries occur when an inexperienced driver loses control of an ATV, is thrown from an ATV, overturns the off-road vehicle, or collides with a fixed object or a car. Hands-on training can give experienced and first-time riders the skills to handle the multiple riding situations that can happen in off-road conditions. Courses are offered by the ATV Safety Institute. Riders can also check with the National 4-H Council, local ATV rider groups, state agencies and some ATV manufacturers.

ATV Defects

Perhaps you were riding along and your brakes stopped working, or the vehicle flipped even though you were obeying the operator’s manual. Cases involving a defective or dangerous vehicle part take the form of product liability lawsuits. In these personal injury claims, you will not have to prove the manufacturing company or other defendant was negligent in the creation of the off-road vehicle or one of its components. You will simply have to show that the off-road vehicle had a defect and that this defect caused your accident.

In Louisiana, you have just one year from the date of your ATV accident to bring a claim against a manufacturing company or distributor. Our ATV personal injury lawyers can help investigate whether there was a design flaw, manufacturing mistake, or marketing error that caused your accident.

The ATV accident lawyers at Murphy Law Firm can evaluate your case during a no obligation or fee consultation while helping you identify your rights regarding your accident. Call Murphy Law Firm at (225) 928-8800 for more information.

Murphy Law Firm is dedicated to serving clients with a comprehensive range of legal services beyond our ATV Accident expertise. Our skilled team of attorneys is well-versed in handling diverse cases, ensuring we can provide effective representation in various areas of personal injury law.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a drunk driving accident, we understand the devastating consequences that can result from such incidents. Our attorneys have extensive experience handling these cases, working diligently to hold the responsible parties accountable and seeking rightful compensation for our clients.

Additionally, if you have suffered injuries from a bicycle accident, our firm is here to support you. We recognize the unique challenges cyclists face, and our legal professionals have the knowledge and expertise to navigate the complexities of bicycle accident cases.

Rollover accidents can be particularly dangerous, often leading to severe injuries and significant property damage. At Murphy Law Firm, we have a proven track record of successfully representing clients involved in rollover accidents. Our lawyers will thoroughly investigate the incident's circumstances, working tirelessly to build a strong case and secure the compensation necessary to aid your recovery.

Whether you require the expertise of a car wreck lawyer or need legal assistance in any other area related to personal injury law, Murphy Law Firm is here to help. Trust us to advocate for you and seek the justice and compensation you deserve.

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Off-road Vehicle/ATV Accident Lawyers in Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Off-Road Vehicles & ATV Accidents

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