Though ATVs are not designed for highway use in recent years, there have been more than 300 ATV highway deaths. According to a study by Johns Hopkins research, ATV riders are more likely to sustain serious injuries or even die from accidents. This is partly because ATV riders wear helmets less often.
Things to Watch out for
Reckless driving
- Many ATV drivers want to show off their skills by performing stunts. This includes speeding, taking hands off the steering, popping
wheelies which easily leads to loss of control. - Riding under the influence
Just because you are not driving on the highway doesn’t mean you can drink and drive. Use of alcohol and other drugs interferes
with your reaction time and judgment. - Riding on paved roads and highways
Though ATVs are vehicles; driving them on the road is quite unsafe. These vehicles lack the safety and protective measures that
cars offer. It is quite easy for a car or a truck to bump into an ATV when switching lanes. - Underage riders driving adult-sized ATVs
Handling an ATV manufactured for an adult rider on a bumpy trail requires a lot of physical strength, coordination, and experience.
Underage persons riding adult-sized ATVs are exposed to greater danger because they may be unable to maintain balance and
control or due to their small size be unable to reach the controls. - Lack of ATV maintenance
ATVs are driven in some of the harshest conditions. Every bump, hard steering, and acceleration contributes to wear and tear of vital components on the ATV. ATV steering and suspension components are prone to failure due to the driving intensity. It is critical that your ATV is frequently inspected and maintained. ATV and Jet Ski Injuries can be prevented.
Head Injuries: Though helmets are mandatory with ATV use. Users are susceptible to traumatic brain injuries and concussions. In more severe cases head injuries can be fatal and even lead to paralysis.
Neck Injuries: ATV and Jet Ski crashes can cause cervical spine fractures and herniated discs. This can cause temporary or permanent pain and discomfort.
Bone fractures: Severe impact can result in bone fractures and breaks.
Internal Organs: In extreme situations, you may be thrown off, run over, or toppled this can result in serious internal injuries.
Death: ATV and Jet Ski accidents can easily result in death. You may think that an ATV is much safer than a motorcycle but according to public health researchers, people are by far more likely to die in ATV accidents.
General Safety Guidelines for ATVs and Jet Skis
- Get relevant training and certification
- Never drink alcohol or use drugs when riding
- Don’t pull stunts
- Don’t drive at night since this makes it hard for you to see or be seen by others
- Perform an inspection on your machine before use
If you have been involved in a jet-ski or ATV accident remember you may need legal counsel. Here at the Spada Law Group we sincerely hope you never need us, but if you do we would be happy to discuss your case. We have been helping injured people get their lives back together for over 20 years.
