ATV Accident Resources - Overview

All-terrain vehicle accidents don’t only affect recreational users. Farmers and other laborers who use ATVs for work also face the risk of accidents and subsequent injuries. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has said there are nearly 100,000 people injured every year in ATV accidents, including fires and explosions. These incidents and the associated injuries can be avoided by recognizing the dangers, riding safely, and knowing what to and not to do while operating the vehicle, no matter where and under what conditions it is being used.

ATV Dangers

The most significant dangers of riding an all-terrain vehicle include:

  • Driving without being adequately trained to drive safely.
  • Lack of knowledge on riding on hills, rough terrain, or paved roads (if the model can be).
  • Children driving ATVs designed for use by stronger adults.
  • Carrying loads or passengers in violation of manufacturer recommendations.
  • Not wearing a helmet, protective eyewear, or other safety gear.
  • Defects in such equipment, brakes, or steering systems.
  • Defects in fuel and exhaust systems, which can lead to fires and explosions.
  • Individuals who ride under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Therefore, many factors can lead to an accident. Much of the time, a driver’s negligence or recklessness is to blame. Speeding, riding up steep hills, and rollovers are common factors. Riding with passengers is a danger because the added weight can throw the vehicle off-balance, causing it to roll over or the passenger to fall off.

Safe Riding Practices

One of the first rules of riding safely is to avoid paved roads. All-terrain vehicles are not designed for them. They’re configured to run optimally on rugged terrain; an ATV can easily overturn or collide with a car on a regular road.

It’s also important to protect oneself. Individuals should wear a helmet, gloves, clothing, and goggles that are compliant with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. Also, the vehicle should never be driven with more people than it was designed to carry, nor should anyone operate a model that’s not recommended for their age group. Evidence of fuel leaks should be addressed immediately and recalls related to problems that might cause fires and explosions should be heeded by seeking proper maintenance and repair. For more about safe ATV driving, view the CPSC’s Quick Facts for a Safer Ride.

Do’s and Don’ts

In short, the basic principles of driving an all-terrain vehicle safely are as follows:

  • Do wear helmets and other safety gear.
  • Do ride at safe speeds, in designated areas.
  • Do steer clear of paved roads, which can be dangerous and illegal for riders.
  • Do get safety training from a qualified professional.

The ATV RiderCourseSM from the ATV Safety Institute offers hands-on training, covering pre-ride inspection, turning, starting/stopping, emergency stopping, hill riding, navigating obstacles, regulations, and more.

The don’ts associated with driving include:

  • Don’t drive a vehicle if under 16 years old.
  • Don’t exceed the capacity of the vehicle.
  • Don’t ride if under the influence of alcohol/drugs.
  • Don’t head out unless familiar with local laws and regulations.

The resources available to ATV accident victims are many. These range from legal resources related to child injury, accident law, and medical malpractice; to advice articles and law firms. Justia is a comprehensive resource to get started and learn about federal and state law, ATV accidents, and finding legal expertise. Also, awareness of fire and explosion risk can help one consider all the factors for riding safely and with peace of mind.