Ohioans of all ages drive ATVs and side-by-sides for recreation and work. Farmers often use ATVs or side-by-sides to cross fields and inspect crops, herd livestock, and perform necessary maintenance. Construction workers use ATVs and side-by-sides to haul equipment and materials. Many people ride ATVs and side-by-sides as a hobby, embarking on adventures across Ohio’s beautiful trails.
ATV and side-by-side riding comes with risks. Even the most cautious driver may find themselves facing severe injuries as a result of a collision. If you have sustained injuries caused by another driver’s negligent conduct, our ATV/side-by-side accidents attorneys may be able to help you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.
Common Reasons for ATV/Side-by-Side Accidents
Across the United States, around 100,000 emergency room visits associated with off-highway vehicles such as ATVs and side-by-sides are reported every year. Driver error is a leading cause of collisions.
By law, operators of ATVs and side-by-sides are required to follow strict precautions meant to preserve both their own safety and that of their fellow road-users. This includes having a valid driver’s license, obeying all traffic regulations, and ensuring that the vehicle functions properly.
Some of the most commonly reported causes of ATV and side-by-side accidents include:
- Inebriated driving (under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol)
- Speeding
- Reckless driving (including attempts to do tricks)
- Driving in the dark
- Allowing a minor to drive an adult ATV (known as negligent entrustment)
- Neglecting to heed the weather or other environmental concerns
- And more
In order to mitigate the risks, and increase your chances of safe ATV or side-by-side operation, you may wish to take the following actions:
- Seek training in how to operate your vehicle
- Familiarize yourself with state law on ATV and side-by-side vehicles
- Wear a helmet and protective clothing while riding
- Never entrust an adult vehicle to a child
- Do not ride your ATV or side-by-side on any state highway
While taking reasonable precautions may reduce your risk of involvement in an atv or side-by-side accident, you unfortunately cannot control the actions of other road users. If you have been involved in an accident and would like to learn more about your options, contact our ATV/Side-by-Side accidents attorneys today.
The Impacts of an ATV/Side-by-Side Accident
Injuries associated with ATV and side-by-side accidents can range in severity from mild to life-altering, or even fatal. Depending on the speed and angle of impact, an injured accident survivor may face any of the following injuries:
- Broken bones
- Cuts
- Lacerations
- Burns
- Torn ligaments
- Dislocation
- Brain trauma
- Spinal cord injuries
- And more
Trauma to the head and spine can lead to severe damage, resulting in quadriplegia or paraplegia. An injured accident survivor may no longer be able to engage in work or other day-to-day activities in the same way as before. In some cases, recovery may take months if not years. In other cases, the injured accident survivor’s life may never be the same.
Medical bills, rehabilitative treatments, prescription medication, and other necessary costs may add up, adding immense stress to a person who may simultaneously be facing income loss as a result of their injuries. Financial stress may contribute to anxiety, depression, or a range of other psychological disorders, which may in turn compound to worsen the individual’s physical condition.
There may be financial help available. Through a personal injury claim, with the assistance of our ATV/side-by-side accidents attorneys, you may be eligible to receive compensation to help cover your medical treatments as well as lost income, and more. Contact us today to discuss your specific case and learn what may be possible.
What To Do If You Have Been in an ATV/Side-by-Side Accident
The first and most important step after any accident is to ensure that you receive the medical attention you need. This may mean receiving first aid at the accident site, and it may mean going to the emergency room for immediate care. Because ATV and side-by-side rides often involve remote locations, it is recommended that you carry a satellite phone. This may prove essential in the event of an emergency.
Make sure your medical care provider makes a record of your injuries, as a formal medical assessment may be essential proof in a potential personal injury claim.
If you are able, it may be useful to record photos and videos while you are still at the scene. Record the names of anyone who was present, including the other driver, passengers, and eyewitnesses.
Your next step may be to contact our ATV/side-by-side accident attorneys. We will guide the conversation to better understand your case, and see how we may be of service to you.
Contact Graham Law and Book a Consultation with our ATV/Side-by-Side Accidents Attorneys Today
Injuries associated with ATV and side-by-side accidents can be severe. There may be financial help available to support you with the costs of medical treatments, lost income, and more. Contact us today at Graham Law to speak with our ATV/side-by-side attorneys, and learn what we may be able to do for you.
