All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) Accidents Attorney in Austin, Texas
The Consumer Product Safety Commission reported an estimated 781 ATV-related fatalities in 2009. Capable of speeds of up to 55 mph, rollovers are the leading cause of ATV accidents. Defective brakes, wheels, and roll bars are also to blame.
The Texas countryside is filled with ranches, open spaces, and beautiful scenery. It isn’t uncommon to see all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) exploring these regions during the spring and summer months. These vehicles provide a unique and fun method to traverse steep hillsides, rocky trails, and muddy pathways as they are specifically designed and built for these regions. However, the enjoyable experience of an ATV adventure can quickly turn into tragedy if an accident, such as a rollover, occurs as the consequences can be catastrophic.
Dangerous Terrain
ATVs are incredibly popular in Texas. They provide the freedom to roam the countryside that most other vehicles are unable to handle. However, the dangerous landscape brings dangers to ATV riders as these vehicles can reach speeds of up to 55 miles per hour. In rocky or steep terrain, a rollover can easily occur.
Safety measures such as roll bars are included to prevent or limit passenger injury. What happens if a defect occurs and those bars fail to meet their purpose? A driver can face serious injury. These vehicles can weigh as much as 500 lbs. and broken bones, brain injury, or even death can result if one happens to roll over.
Failing to Ensure Safety
Rollovers are the most common type of ATV accident due to the fact that these vehicles have a high center of gravity and a narrow wheelbase. Uneven terrain or a sharp corner can cause an ATV to flip over and crush the person or people riding it if roll bars are faulty. Countless victims have suffered injury from these accidents along with other product defects, such as poor brakes or wheels and unsafe designs. Accidents can happen at any time and anywhere, creating a financial and physical burden for the victim(s).
Injuries
ATVs are not designed with the same safety features as regular vehicles. Although they are given unique designs to prevent accidents and injuries, said designs are not always foolproof. Brake defects, for example, can be disastrous on a rocky hillside or steep incline. The same goes for wheels failing to traverse certain terrain types. The vehicle’s manufacturer can be held liable if a defect has occurred. Injuries caused by ATV accidents include:
Head and Neck Trauma
Spinal Cord Injury
Fractured and Broken Bones
Brain Injury
Paralysis
Brain and head injuries, above all others, can be life-threatening while resulting in years’ worth of recovery time for a victim. In more extreme cases, a victim may never fully recover or an accident can result in death. This alone is capable of causing extreme financial hardships due to medical bills, rehabilitation, loss of earning ability, pain, and suffering, etc.
The Legal Aftermath Made Easy
The Greenway Law Firm fully understands the implications of an ATV accident. The region surrounding Austin is home to outdoor and off-roading enthusiasts looking to have fun. Fun, however, can sometimes turn to tragedy if an ATV defect is involved. If so, know that a highly-trusted legal resource is available to you.
From the Minute You Walk in, to the Moment You’re Awarded the Monetary Compensation You Deserve, You’ll Be Taken Care Of.
John Greenway has many connections to the medical community, so not only will you be taken care of legally, but medically as well. Get started today with a FREE consultation to see where your case stands.