Even though the number of automobile accidents that occur each year has been declining in Maryland and the surrounding states, the need for an experienced ATV accident law firm Maryland residents can rely on is on the rise.
All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are used extensively in agriculture and other industries that require a vehicle that can handle a variety of terrains, as well as for recreation amongst kids, teens and adults. They are often known as four wheelers, quads, quad bikes, three-wheelers, and quadricycles. It does not matter exactly where a person is operating an ATV, how often they do, or how old the operator is, accidents can happen at any time. The kinds of injuries sustained during an ATV accident can vary anywhere from nominal or minor, to severe, debilitating and even causing death.
Compensation for ATV Accidents
When someone is injured in an ATV accident they may be entitled to compensation. When a family member dies in an ATV accident, his or her surviving family members may be entitled to compensation. Many people find it helpful to discuss their ATV accident and injury with a personal injury lawyer that has experience in successfully defending the rights of ATV accident victims and their families. He or she may be able to help them determine whether their situation warrants pursuing compensation through a personal injury claim.
Common Causes of ATV Accidents
Many ATV accidents do not involve any other vehicles. Common causes of ATV accidents include but are not limited to:
- Environmental hazards
- Operator errors
- Vehicle malfunctions
- Operator was under the influence of alcohol or drugs
The above is not a comprehensive list of all the ways an ATV accident can be caused nor can simply reading about ATV accidents heal your injuries. If you have been injured in an ATV accident, it may be in your best interest to contact an ATV accident law firm Maryland ATV accident victims and their families recommend.
ATV Accidents On Public Roads Many states do not allow ATVs to be operated on public roads but regardless, people are injured on public roads while operating or riding on ATVs. Many ATVs do not have the proper safety equipment to be operated on public roads. Very often, public roads are not maintained properly and create hazardous conditions that can cause ATVs to crash, flip over, or go out of control, etc. ATVs that are on public roads are prone to be struck by other vehicles because of the ATV’s lack of visibility and slower speeds. These reasons plus other are why ATV accidents happen on public roads.
Common ATV Accident Injuries
According to the Insurance Institute on Highway Safety, in 2014, 91% of fatally injured ATV riders were not wearing helmets. Even though helmets reduce the risk of head and brain injuries, ATV operators and riders can be injured in numerous ways. Some common injuries that occur during ATV accidents include:
- Lacerations, cuts, scrapes and wounds
- Head injuries (even when wearing a helmet, ATV accidents can cause concussions,
TBI, brain damage, etc.) - Neck injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Fractured and broken bones
- Paralysis
- Loss of limbs
- Disfigurement
- Facial injuries
Cohen & Cohen Can Help ATV Accident Victims and Their Families
People injured in ATV accidents may be entitled to monetary compensation for expenses related to their accident. When a family loses a loved one to an ATV accident, they may be entitled to compensation for their loss and expenses related to the accident. Cohen & Cohen has been protecting the rights of injured people and their families for over 30 years and are available to try to help you.
For an ATV accident law firm Maryland is fortunate to have in its midst, contact Cohen & Cohen for a free case consultation and evaluation, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
