All-Terrain Vehicle Accidents in Georgia

All-terrain vehicles, commonly known as ATVs, are used across Georgia for both recreational and work-related purposes. Farmers, ranchers and those who work outdoors use ATVs to rapidly navigate land that lacks road access, such as fields and wooded areas. Others use ATVs for recreational purposes in off-roading activities on uneven terrain. Despite the productivity and pleasure that drivers may find by riding ATVs, they are also in constant danger of serious permanent injury and death in an ATV accident.
ATV Injuries and Fatalities are Common in the United States
ATV accidents lead to hundreds of deaths and tens of thousands of injuries each year in the United States. In 2013, for example, the estimated number of ATV related fatalities was pegged at 426 by the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission. In 2014, there were an estimated 93,700 ATV-related injuries that resulted in hospitalization. Children under the age of 16 represent approximately 26% of all ATV injuries and fatalities.
ATV Related Injuries Are Serious and Life Altering
The most common ATV related injuries are those that result when an ATV rolls or flips over. These include:

• Traumatic brain injury
• Concussions
• Spinal cord injuries
• Neck injuries
• Bone fractures and dislocations
• Chest and abdominal injuries

ATVs are known for flipping and rolling over. When this happens, an ATV driver or passenger can be thrown from the vehicle, or even worse, pinned underneath it. This can cause any one of the serious injuries listed above. Many of these injuries are permanent and will require constant care for the rest of a person’s life.
Safety Tips When Operating All-Terrain Vehicles
There is always a risk of injury when operating an ATV. However, the risk of injury can be reduced when following these safety tips:

• Do not allow ATV drivers to carry passengers
• Do not let children drive an ATV
• Do not operate an ATV in inclement weather
• Do not operate an ATV while under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Always wear a helmet and other appropriate safety gear such as reflectors and proper footwear
• Always carry a communication device in case of an emergency or accident
• Familiarize yourself with how to properly operate an ATV before riding it on uneven or unsafe terrain
• Take an ATV safety course before operating an ATV

What Damages can I Recover After an ATV Accident?
Compensation is meant to make a victim whole. If you have been the victim of an ATV accident, you may be able to recover economic damages for:

• Medical expenses
• Property repair
• Lost wages, past and future
• Pain and suffering

Contact Attorneys with Experience
If you or someone you know has been injured in an accident with an ATV, please do not hesitate to consult with us. At Jonathan R. Brockman, a personal injury law firm, we are committed to ensuring that our clients get the full value of their claims after being involved in an accident. No matter what legal theory and avenue must be explored, we are willing to put our resources to work for you. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.