Many injuries are caused by ejection or roll-over of the ATV and involve young or inexperienced drivers and their passengers. Often these drivers are under the age of 16, and too young to have a driver’s license. Other factors include:
- Speeding
- Unpredictable terrain
- Driving on the highway
- Exceeding weight limits or illegal loads
- Operator error
- Mechanical error
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Collision with a vehicle, pedestrian, animal, tree, building etc.
The effects of serious injuries are devastating to the victim and his family, physically, emotionally and financially. Kahler Personal Injury Lawyers are experienced and thorough in helping injured clients and their families get the support they need and are entitled to.
Types of injuries sustained in an ATV accident may range from cuts and bruises to serious injuries including:
- Broken bones
- Spinal cord injuries
- Neck injuries
- Face injuries
- Back injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Death
In Ontario use of all terrain vehicles or ATV’s, are under the jurisdiction of the Off Road Vehicles Act and the Highway Traffic Act. It is important to make yourself familiar with the laws surrounding the operation of your particular machine
Each ATV must be registered, insured and have license plates attached. The driver must be able to produce the above documents if necessary. Keep in mind the following:
- Headlights and helmets are imperative
- Operators under age 12 must have direct adult supervision (in Ontario)
- Most ATVs are for the driver only and not for passengers
- Many ATV’s are not designed to carry a load (Know your machine)
- Government regulations set out specific rules regarding the types of ATV’s allowed on public roadways,
- Most ATV’s are designed without roll-bars or crush prevention devices and have the potential for great speed and power. Skill in operating the vehicle along with strict adherence to safety rules, and the law helps prevent injuries.
ATV recreational use is meant to be fun and a great way to get into the outdoors and spend time with friends and family. No one wants or expects accidents to happen. When they do, it is important to contact an experienced accident injury lawyer to help sort out the details and get compensation for your injuries.
