UTV Accidents
Both utility side by side vehicles (UTV) and all-terrain vehicles (ATV) are operated by thousands of off-road enthusiasts every year. Both types of vehicles are commonly known as four-wheelers or quads, and most times, they are driven in remote areas. Inexperience and unfamiliarity can result in severe accidents and injuries, as can faulty parts or systems that result in a fire or explosion. Knowing more about your rights after being injured in an off-road accident can help you get both financial and medical relief.
What You Need to Know About UTV Accidents
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports that thousands of people drive out to remote areas to hop on a four-wheeler every year. Unfortunately, recreational utility side by side and all-terrain vehicle accidents claim hundreds of lives each year, with hundreds upon thousands of people suffering both minor and major injuries. A third of the fatalities and injuries happen to children who are 16 years and under.
Injuries that result from these kinds of crashes, as well as fires and explosions, include traumatic brain injuries, severe burns, and head injuries.
Since these vehicles are operated on rugged terrains, it is relatively common for accidents to happen. Even the most experienced of riders’ risk losing control and incurring significant injuries. This is why it is important to know what steps you should take if you are involved in such an accident.
How Do Accidents Happen?
Many state laws require that children under the age of 18 wear a helmet and pass certain safety courses before they ride these vehicles. Further, it is advised that only one person operate the vehicle at a time unless it has been designed for additional passengers. Many adults choose to ignore these requirements which result in accidents and injuries.
Often, riders will use the vehicles in ways they were not designed to be used. UTVs can travel at high speeds, and when driven off the road, they are prone to flipping over. Also, they tend to handle very differently on hard-surfaced roads compared to unpaved surfaces, which can cause a driver to lose control and crash.
Further, faulty systems can result in severe explosions or fires.
What Should You Do If You’re Involved in an Accident?
Being out in rugged areas can make getting immediate help somewhat difficult. But, you still have to act quickly. Here are a few steps you can take if you are involved in an accident, fire or explosion:
- Seek medical attention right away – sometimes, emergency crews may not be able to get to you immediately, so take note of ranger stations close by and make sure you keep a first aid kit on hand wherever you go.
- Snap pictures – photos of both property damage and your injuries serve as physical evidence that can strengthen your claim.
- Swap contact information – be sure to trade information with the other person involved in the accident. Without the information, trying to pursue a compensation can become tricky.
- Call a lawyer – have a knowledgeable lawyer on your side can help with figuring out your options.
Both UTV and ATV insurance is available for a driver’s protection and being proactive by ensuring you are covered can protect you in the long run.