Most all-terrain vehicle (ATV) accidents occur because of driving over unfamiliar areas, performing dangerous stunts, and transporting extra passengers. They may also happen because of inexperience. Consumption of alcohol or drugs also increases the risk of these accidents.
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What Are the Common Causes of ATV Crashes?
Driving Over Unfamiliar Areas
Riding ATVs over unfamiliar terrain increases the risks of an accident. Before accelerating the speed, a driver should first acquaint himself or herself with the terrain. He or she can ride over the road at a slow speed at least once to see what is ahead of him or her.
Defective Parts
While most ATV accidents happen because of the reckless operation of the vehicle by the driver, they may also take place due to a defective part. If a certain part of the vehicle develops a fault and causes an accident, the seller or manufacturer may be held liable for the sale of a defective product. The accident victim should see a doctor immediately after the crash to have the injuries identified, treated, and documented. An accident lawyer can help the accident victim determine whether there are enough grounds for bringing a product liability lawsuit against the seller or manufacturer.
Passengers
Carrying an extra person in an ATV that is not designed for passengers is dangerous. This usually upsets the balance of the vehicle, endangering the life of both the driver and passenger.
Inexperience
Operating an ATV with no experience is another leading cause of ATV crashes. An inexperienced operator should not ride the vehicle. He or she must complete a course and obtain the required license before jumping behind the wheel.
Performing Dangerous Maneuvers
Performing dangerous stunts can increase the likelihood of ATV accidents. Before performing risky maneuvers, a driver should ensure he or she has sufficient training.
Riding on Paved Surfaces
ATVs are specifically designed for off-road use. For this reason, they perform poorly on flat, paved surfaces and may cause fatal accidents. In fact, 33% of all ATV fatalities reported between 2009 and 2012 happened on paved surfaces. Avoiding smooth surfaces while driving the vehicle is a surefire way to lower the risk of an accident.
Drinking and Driving
Like all other traffic accidents and fatalities, driving while impaired by alcohol, prescription medications, or illegal drugs is one of the leading causes of ATV crashes. Driving off-road doesn’t give an ATV operator a pass to drink and drive.
