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An all-terrain vehicle (ATV) is a motorized carrier no wider than 70 inches with two or more wheels manufactured primarily for use in off-road competitions and for enjoyment. ATVs do not include snowmobiles or vehicles exclusively used for travel on snow and ice. If an individual intends to operate an ATV anywhere in New York, including their own property, they must register the vehicle with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) on an annual basis.
While ATVs are marketed as fun adventure vehicles, unfortunately many people suffer severe injuries while using them, often due to other the negligence of others.. If you suffer severe personal injuries because of another person’s negligence, speak with the lawyers at Lever & Ecker, PLLC for highly-qualified legal representation.
ATVs are commonly used for exhilarating and fast-paced off-road entertainment. In order to reduce the number of ATV accidents, there are regulations that individuals must follow when operating these vehicles. However, some people fail to follow the rules when using them, and cause serious and even life-threatening accidents in the process.
The following are a few common causes of ATV accidents in Westchester:
While no one under 16 may operate an ATV in New York, young adults are still at a higher risk of injury from an ATV accident than adults. ATV owners must ensure no one under the age of 16 drives their vehicle, or they may face severe consequences.
With the proper instruction and experience, drivers can operate ATVs safely. However, without safety training and other important knowledge, serious accidents can occur. Below are a few examples of the types of injuries an individual may suffer from in an ATV accident:
While you may do everything in your power to stay safe while riding an ATV, others may fail to be sufficiently cautious and prudent while driving an ATV. If you suffer any injuries because of another person’s carelessness, seek an experienced attorney as soon as possible.
Many fail to follow the rules and regulations of an ATV and cause or suffer serious injuries. However, there are a number of ways to try reduce the likelihood of accidents, and serious injuries from accidents, including:
While the ATV has no safety equipment built into the vehicle, individuals are encouraged to wear long sleeves, long pants, over-the-ankle boots, and gloves while riding. They should also wear a helmet and eye protection. Without protective gear, a rider is highly susceptible to dangerous injuries in an accident.
Most motor vehicles require drivers to take courses and tests to ensure they know the road rules before operating a motor vehicle. Taking an ATV safety course provides drivers with the necessary training and skills to handle different obstacles while riding off-road. There are many courses for individuals of all ages that train riders to operate their ATVs safely.
Most off-road areas do not have lights that properly illuminate an individual’s surroundings enough to drive a vehicle. As the sun sets, it becomes harder to see possible dangers on the road, such as those that can cause an ATV to flip unexpectedly. It is essential that drivers always drive during the daylight hours or on courses with proper lighting.
ATVs are designed explicitly for off-road, dirt-road, and non-highway terrain. When an individual drives an ATV on a paved surface, they may find it harder to control the vehicle, causing them to crash into surrounding objects or other vehicles.
Most manufacturers create ATVs for one person. Having another individual ride on an ATV significantly increases the risk of a severe accident. While there are ATVs that hold more than one person, there is still a high risk of life-threatening injuries when more than one person rides on an ATV.
A driver should never operate a vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol. These inhibitors slow down motor reflexes, interfere with the senses, and impair an individual’s judgment. Operating an ATV while under the influence is extremely dangerous and can lead to catastrophic injury or even death.
Considering the above precautions will significantly reduce the likelihood of ATV accidents and injuries. However, if you are injured because of another person’s negligence, speak with an ATV accident lawyer as soon as possible.
Our award-winning ATV accident attorneys at Lever & Ecker, PLLC will use their knowledge and extensive connections to build a strong ATV accident claim. With over 65 years of combined experience protecting New Yorkers’ rights, we have the tools to provide you with the legal representation you can trust. We understand your time is important, so we are available 24/7 to schedule a free consultation with one of our legal representatives.
Call (914) 288-9191, or fill out our contact form for more information about how our team can represent your claim today.
