ATVs are popular among teens and adults, both to have fun and haul heavy objects. Many children enjoy going four wheeling, however, even with perfect operation, ATVs can still lead to accidents and serious injuries. In 2014 alone, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission estimated that there were over 93,000 ATV-related injuries that required an emergency room visit. 25% of these injuries were kids under the age of 16. That’s why it’s so important to know what to do after an accident.
About ATVs
An all-terrain vehicle (ATV), also known as a quad, quad bike, three-wheeler, four-wheeler or quadricycle as defined by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) as a vehicle that travels on low-pressure tires, with a seat that is straddled by the operator, along with handlebars for steering control.
In 1971, most ATVs were three-wheelers. However, they were soon recalled since they rolled over so easily. A 1987 lawsuit filed by the U.S. Justice Department stopped the production of the three-wheeled vehicles. Still, stores still sold around 2.4 million three-wheelers, and many still use them today.
In addition to ATVs exciting recreational uses, all-terrain vehicles are commonly used for ranching and handling livestock, farming, racing, cargo transportation and transportation between remote rural locations
Did You Know?
- In 2014, 385 ATV accident deaths occurred.
- 93,700 people went to the emergency room from ATV injuries in 2014.
Types of ATV Injuries
- Head injuries
- Facial injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Neck injuries
- Fractures and broken bones
- Spinal cord injuries
- Paralysis
ATV Defects – Manufacturer Responsibility
ATVs are widely recognized as being unsafe. Designers and manufacturers of ATVs have an obligation to make sure their products are as safe as possible. If an ATV injured or killed you or one of your family members, a manufacturer could give you compensation. Manufacturers who design and distribute unsafe ATV vehicles should pay you for the losses you suffer due to using them. Also, You deserve compensation.
Most ATV accidents result from defective parts. These can cause vehicle-handling issues and also a lag in response time. Unfortunately, this causes many people to roll their ATV. Manufacturers made these vehicles for driving off-road, but they still aren’t safe.
Many consumer advocacy groups feel that ATV manufacturers are responsible for a failure to educate properly about the potential dangers and also the hazards. Failing to adequately prepare consumers for the risks of ATVs makes the manufacturers liable for certain injuries or deaths caused as a result of ATV accidents.
ATV Recalls
KTM ATV Recall Due to Brake Failure
KTM North America of Amherst, Ohio, recalled over 2,700 ATVs because of brake failure. Faulty rear brake caliper supports caused riders to lose control of steering and braking. Defective caliper supports put ATV riders at risk for serious injuries or death.
Consumers bought the recalled ATVs between August 2007 to January 2009. The model numbers are 450XC, the 525XC, the 450SX and the 505SX.
Yamaha ATV Recall Due to Rollover
Yamaha Motor Corporation recalled over 120,000 ATVs following 46 deaths and hundreds of injuries caused by rollover accidents. The model numbers are 450, 660, and 700. These models have a design flaw that makes them vulnerable to rollover accidents.
Compensation is Available
If an ATV injures you, you are not at fault!
If an ATV injured or killed you or one of your family members, a manufacturer could give you compensation. No matter what state you live in, what your work status is, or what your nationality is, help is available.
For a free and totally confidential consultation, contact us.
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