ATV Accidents

All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are three- or four-wheeled motorized vehicles used in recreational and some work-related activities. These vehicles can often travel at speeds over 50 miles per hour and may weigh as much as 700 pounds, making them very difficult to operate. As a result, ATVs have been involved in large numbers of crashes, resulting in even more injuries. In fact, three-wheeled ATVs are no longer made because of their inherent dangers. However, these vehicles were not recalled, and many remain in use today. Four-wheeled ATVs or “quads” provide greater stability and safety, but they can still be very hazardous.

At the Miami personal injury law firm of Friedman Rodman Frank & Estrada, we proudly represent individuals and families forever impacted by ATV accidents. We have extensive experience pursuing claims against manufacturers, individual riders, and property owners, and we know what it takes to secure meaningful compensation for our clients.

Because an ATV has no side doors or a roof, riders are not protected. If the vehicle tips over and the driver attempts to use an arm or leg to brace themselves, broken arms, legs, or other injuries can occur. If the heavy vehicle rolls over a rider, its weight can injure or even kill the rider. Sadly, many of these accidents involve children.

Determining the responsible party in an ATV accident is not always simple, and that’s why it’s a good idea to discuss your options with a knowledgeable Miami ATV accident lawyer. Some possible causes of ATV accidents include the following:

Often, ATV operators are not given the proper training or warnings before being allowed to operate the vehicle. Operators are often unaware of how fast ATVs can go or how heavy they are. Inexperienced and reckless riders are responsible for the majority of ATV accidents.

ATV accidents don’t often occur on public roads, and privately owned roads and trails may not be properly maintained. The owner of a poorly maintained property may be liable for injuries stemming from an ATV accident.

If an accident was the result of malfunctioning brakes or tires, or the ATV experienced structural issues with the frame or welding, you may be able to seek compensation from the manufacturer.

If you’ve been injured in an ATV accident caused by defective equipment or someone else’s negligence, you may be able to receive compensation for your losses through the legal process, including amounts for your medical bills, past and future lost wages, and pain and suffering. If a loved one has died as the result of an ATV accident, you may be able to file a wrongful death suit.

If you have been in an ATV accident, it is essential that you take certain steps to protect your health as well as your right to bring a personal injury claim against the at-fault party. Below are a few things to keep in mind after an ATV accident.

• Seek medical attention as soon as possible to minimize future medical complications and to document the extent of your injuries.
• Collect information about your accident, including contact information for all people involved, including witnesses, the location of the accident, the make and model number of the ATV, and any insurance information.
• Do not sign anything or discuss your accident with anyone except law enforcement officials without talking to an attorney.
• Contact an attorney as soon as possible. There may be legal deadlines for filing a lawsuit, and an experienced attorney can help you meet those deadlines, negotiate with insurance companies, and assist with the legal process.

The law offices of Friedman Rodman Frank & Estrada has a long history of helping ATV accident victims and their surviving family members obtain compensation for what they’ve been through. We offer free consultations to all prospective clients and will never pressure you to move forward with your case. We see our role as to provide you with the facts that will enable you to make the best decision for yourself and your family. To schedule a free consultation with an ATV accident lawyer in Miami, call Friedman Rodman Frank & Estrada at 305-448-8585 or fill out our online contact form.