ATV Accident Death and Injury Statistics – West Virginia

ATV accidents can lead to extensive injuries and loss of life. Studies have ranked West Virginia as the state with the highest amount of fatal ATV accidents. In one county, 18 ATV-related accidents we reported in 2013 alone. What’s more, statistics show that more than 1,600 riders died in all-terrain vehicle accidents between 2007 and 2011 and according to federal government statistics, a staggering 90 percent of ATV-related deaths are men who are 16 years or older.

ATV Laws in West Virginia

West Virginia’s state laws dictate that ATVs with more than 50 cc’s (engine power) must be titled. ATV owners should be aware that they have to wear a helmet before operating the vehicle since helmets are shown to reduce the risk of brain or head injuries when a collision occurs.

Another vital law worth mentioning is that passengers are not permitted on ATVs in the state. Only those vehicles specially designed to hold passengers may be operated with passengers. Operating these vehicles on highways is strictly prohibited, other than in Buchanan County.

ATV Accident Statistics

Between 1982 and 2011, 226 ATV-related deaths occurred. Between 1982 and 2007 there are 175 deaths, and between 2008 and 2011, there were 51. The total number of children 16 years of younger that died in ATV-related accidents from 1982 and 2007 was 39.

Accidents can result in serious burns, injuries, and death. While rollovers associated with such crashes lead to serious injuries, there are times when manufacturing defaults, poor design, and faulty parts can result in ATV fires and explosions. In 2017 alone there has been a number of manufacturer and model recalls due to severe fire hazards and reported deaths and injuries.

While those who have suffered injuries due to an ATV wreck may be able to claim for damages against negligent parties, such as manufacturers and suppliers, families who have lost loved ones in ATV accidents may also have legal recourse. When the negligence of another part caused the ATV accident where a victim was killed or injured, wrongful death or personal injury claim for damages could be available to victims or the family members of victims.