ATV Accident Resources – Do’s and Don’ts After an ATV Accident

Accidents involving all-terrain vehicles happen all too often. Over 100,000 people may be injured every year in the United States from ATV crashes. The risks of inexperience, not wearing safety gear, and the occurrence fires and explosions due to damage and defects in equipment mean people need to be aware of the potential dangers. If an accident does occur, the following do’s and don’ts can mean the difference between liability and compensation for losses and injuries that also include potentially severe burns.

Proper Procedures After an Accident

After a crash, which can occur at high speeds of 65, 70 miles per hour, or higher, it is essential to do the following:

  • Document all the details of the accident.
  • Take pictures of the scene with a camera or Smartphone.
  • Write down the make and model of the vehicle.
  • File a police report if one is required, or if any injuries are involved.
  • Exchange contact and insurance information with anyone else involved.
  • Dial 911 if anyone on the scene is injured.
  • Get the names and information of any witnesses.

In addition, seek medical care even if nothing seems to be wrong. It can take days for some symptoms to show, but a doctor can conduct screenings to be sure there are no hidden problems. Maintaining one’s legal rights is important too; anyone in accident should only talk to law enforcement or their legal representatives.

What Not to Do After an ATV Accident

Refraining from discussing the incident with insurance adjusters, or signing anything that can attribute blame for the accident, can help a rider later on. Releasing any information can pin liability on the driver. One should also make sure to keep their insurance policy. Coverage may help pay for losses another party sustains, or the property damage or medical bills a rider sustains in the accident. Any delay in contacting the insurance company can lead to reduced compensation or a denial of a claim.

It's also important not to delay medical treatment. Assuming an injury is not serious or life threatening is the wrong approach. Internal damage and bleeding is not as evident as, say, a burn from a fire, but can take days to manifest as physical symptoms. If children are injured, they may not be able to say what’s wrong, but any complaints of pain should be followed up on.

Whether the incident involves a collision or a fire/explosion, these do’s and don’ts should be considered in every case.