Why ATVs Are Dangerous

In 2018, 14 people died, 101 people suffered incapacitating injuries, 151 people suffered non-incapacitating injuries, and 86 people suffered possible injuries in Florida all-terrain vehicle (ATV) accidents. 

Why ATV Accident Injuries Happen

Some common reasons for ATV crashes include:

• Lack of stability. Rollover crashes may happen because ATV designs have an inherent lack of lateral stability.
• ATV weight. ATVs weigh more than other types of vehicles used for similar purposes such as dirt bikes. Accordingly, if an ATV lands on top of you or rolls over a part of your body, it may do more damage.
• ATV speeds. Many ATVs can travel as fast as 65 mph, and some can even go as fast as 80 mph. An accident at these speeds can have devastating results.
• Inexperienced drivers. Florida law only requires drivers under the age of 16 to take a Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services safety course before operating an ATV. Older drivers, including those that rent ATVs, do not need to take a safety course.
• Reckless drivers. Some ATV drivers may take unnecessary chances, drive aggressively, or race and put their passengers and others at risk of serious injury.
• Dangerous trails. The trails and land were ATVs are used are not always suitable for safe ATV operation.
• Lack of safety protections. ATVs lack the safety features of cars. Other safety features such as eye protection and helmets are only required for ATV operators who are under the age of 16.

More than one of these factors may contribute to an accident victim’s injuries.

Get Help If You’re Hurt in an ATV Crash

Even if you were driving the ATV, the accident might not be your fault. Our Northwest Florida ATV accident law firm will thoroughly investigate the accident to find out exactly what caused your injuries. We will fight for your fair recovery of past and future healthcare expenses, lost income, out-of-pocket costs, pain, suffering, and other damages, and we will only be paid if you make a financial recovery. Call us, or contact us through this website to schedule your free case evaluation.