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Lebanon ATV Accident Lawyer

All-terrain vehicles, ATVs, are popular for outdoor recreation, such as off-roading, hunting, and fishing, and for work-related purposes, such as farm maintenance. While ATVs offer many benefits, operators risk severe harm when crashes occur. Before getting out on the terrain, those new to the vehicles must learn to operate them safely and comply with the laws.

After suffering harm because of someone else’s actions, you have the right to pursue monetary damages from the liable party with help from a seasoned personal injury attorney from A.W. Smith Law Firm. Contact a Lebanon ATV accident lawyer to schedule an appointment to review your case and learn more.

ATVs and Off-Roading

Many residents and tourists take advantage of the wide range of off-roading destinations whenever possible. Enthusiasts flock to the area to enjoy the great outdoors, travel through the rugged terrain, discover new and exciting trails, and take in the diverse landscapes. While ATVs are popular for many reasons, they can be dangerous when negligence is involved. Safety, caution, operation skills, and adherence to the regulations are essential.

Common Causes of ATV Crashes

ATVs are at high risk of dangerous crashes, such as rollovers and operator ejections during a forceful impact. Understanding some primary causes can help you prevent avoidable accidents. Some of the typical causes include:

  • Operator errors resulting from recklessness, inexperience, or failure to comply with safety guidelines
  • Environmental factors, such as rugged terrain, obstacles, or poor visibility
  • Intoxicated ATV operators with substantially impaired reaction times, coordination, and judgment abilities
  • Dangerous and improper use of all-terrain vehicles, such as carrying passengers or excessive weight or traveling in restricted areas
  • Off-roading in unfamiliar terrain
  • Motorized off-highway vehicles, such as ATVs, are meant for trails and rougher terrain, and the majority of fatal crashes occur while traveling on roads and highways

A Lebanon ATV accident injury attorney at A.W. Smith Law Firm could conduct the investigation, build a solid case, and obtain the maximum potential settlement to cover your injuries and financial losses.

The Dangers of Taking ATVs on Roads

Manufacturers design and produce ATVs for off-roading, and roadway travel increases the risk of accidents leading to severe bodily harm. The vehicles have tires designed specifically for off-road use, a narrow track, relatively high centers of gravity, and most models lack a rear differential, substantially increasing the risk of crashes while traveling on the pavement.

Operators should also exercise additional caution when traveling on unpaved roads. Riding on any street, regardless of the surface type, is dangerous, and the government requires ATV safety warnings to alert consumers buying them.

State Requirements and Safety Regulations

New owners and those considering an ATV purchase must understand where they can ride, how to operate them properly, and the state’s requirements and safety regulations. Per state law, required ATV safety equipment includes the following:

  • All operators and passengers must wear a U.S. Department of Transportation-approved safety helmet while riding
  • They must have functioning head and taillights to travel on unrestricted streets and highways
  • ATV’s must-have bicycle flags at least seven feet above ground and slow-moving emblems for operators entering roadways
  • Vehicles must have properly functioning and maintained brake and muffler systems
  • ATVs must have U.S. Forest Service-qualified spark arresters, which are devices to remove flammable particles from the vehicle’s exhaust

Our ATV crash lawyer in Lebanon can analyze the documentation and other evidence to determine if non-compliance was involved.

Meet With a Qualified ATV Accident Attorney in Lebanon

ATVs offer riders entertainment, thrills, convenience, and the ability to take on open terrain. However, they can also be dangerous, and life-threatening injuries and fatalities are more common than you would think. Most are avoidable, and following the safety rules and complying with state laws could have prevented the crashes and resulting damages.

You could be eligible for compensation if another person’s recklessness caused you or someone close to you harm. Call the AW Smith Law Firm to schedule an appointment with our skilled Lebanon ATV accident lawyer if you have questions or need help with a claim.