New York City ATV Accident Lawyer

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    What is an ATV?

    An ATV (all terrain vehicle), is a four wheeled personal transport vehicle that is designed to travel on a much wider variety of track or terrain than other vehicles. An all terrain vehicle typically has four tires, one or two seats, and handlebars for steering control. ATVs are commonly referred to as four wheelers or quads and they are very similar in design to Snowmobiles and Jet Skis. Their low center of gravity coupled with their low pressure tires allows the operator to handle the ATV in dirt, snow, sand, and other off-road terrain efficiently.

    The ATV was originally designed in 1967 by Honda’s United States operation division. The unique product was a revolutionary concept that was meant to soften the blow of dwindling motorcycle sales in the winter. Since then ATVs have exploded in popularity. Today there are roughly 10 million ATVs owned by Americans, 86% of which are owned by males.

    ATV riding has become one of the most popular summer and winter sports in America. With heavy sponsorships in the X-Games and world renowned drivers, the market for ATV ownership will continue to expand in the near future.

    How Common Are ATV Accidents?

    Unfortunately, all terrain vehicles can be very dangerous and the booming popularity of ATVs has led to an unacceptable jump in ATV related accidents. According to ATVSafety.gov, a well respected affiliate of the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission, over the past 10 years there have been roughly 8,000 ATV accident related deaths, an intolerable increase of approximately 150% over the decade prior. ATVSafety.gov further reports that there have been a staggering 1.4 million emergency room treated injuries directly caused by ATV accidents, an increase of approximately 130% over the decade prior. In addition to serious injuries that must be treated at the emergency room, there have been millions of unreported less severe injuries caused by ATV accidents.

    Who is at Risk?

    Additional data by the ATV Safety Organization has shown that children under the age of 16 are highly susceptible to ATV accidents. Roughly 20% of all ATV accident fatalities and 30% of all ATV accident injuries involve children under the age of 16.

    If you know someone who has been involved in an ATV accident contact a New York City ATV Accident Lawyer at the law firm of Finz & Finz, P.C., today by filling out a Free ATV Accident Case Evaluation. Finz & Finz, P.C., has experienced attorneys and support staff who are always on call and willing to help.

    What are Some of the Causes of ATV Accidents?

    ATV accidents typically involve a collision with rocks, trees, and other all terrain vehicles. These types of accidents are linked to a variety of causes; however some causes have been shown to be more common than others. Below are highlighted situations that lead to a greater probability of an accident occurring:

    • Reckless driving
    • Use of drugs or alcohol
    • Operator inexperience
    • Operator’s lack of training
    • Mechanical malfunction
    • Riding with excess passengers

    How to Prevent an ATV Accident and Serious Injuries

    All terrain vehicles must be handled properly in order to ensure safe operation. All terrain vehicles that are handled without caution may lead to an accident that can result in serious personal injury or death. All operators must follow the rules, regulations, and motorist signs prior to and during ATV operation. Listed below are a few key safety precautions that all riders should take:

    • Maintain your ATV according to manufacturer specifications
    • Attend a hands-on safety course
    • Never deviate from marked trails
    • Always wear appropriate safety gear. This should include a helmet, goggles, and gloves
    • Have a cell phone, water, and a safety kit with you in case of an emergency
    • Never operate at an unsafe speed
    • Always be aware of your surroundings
    • Do not ride in inclement weather or if there is low visibility
    • Never use drugs or alcohol while operating an ATV

    If you have been injured in ATV accident and suffered from severe personal injury Finz & Finz, P.C., to speak with an experienced attorney to discuss your ATV accident. Finz & Finz, P.C., team of knowledgeable and experienced attorneys can help. Call toll free at (855) TOP-FIRM or fill out a Free ATV Accident Case Evaluation to speak with a New York City ATV Accident Lawyer now.