ATV Accidents Involving Children

Personal Injury Attorney | Riding All Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) has become a popular recreational activity for families. Unfortunately, we’re also seeing an increase in injury causing and fatal accidents involving ATVs in adults and children across the country. According to the Mayo Clinic, children account for about one-third of ATV-related emergency room visits and one-quarter of the deaths the deaths associated with ATV accidents. For the first time in history, more children are likely to require hospitalization or to die due to an ATV accident than due to a bicycle accident. It’s important to note that in many cases, the ATV in question belongs to somebody else, and the injured rider was never properly trained or briefed on safety prior to the accident.

ATV Accident Statistics

• In 2013, there were an estimated 99,600 ATV-related, emergency room treated injuries across the U.S.
• Children under the age of 16 years old made up approximately 25 percent of those injured.
• There were 426 reported ATV-related fatalities in 2013.
• Between 1982 and 2013, there have been 13,043 reports of ATV-related fatalities.

Injuries Associated With ATV Accidents

The Mayo Clinic also reports that head trauma is the leading cause of ATV-associated death and disability. Although helmets can reduce the risk of fatal head injury by 42 percent and the risk of nonfatal head injury by as much as 64 percent, they only work if they’re being worn. Also, spinal cord, thoracic and abdominal injuries are also common in ATV accidents. Since these vehicles have a high center of gravity, rollover crashes are a frequent occurrence, and injuries like fractures to the ribs or limbs are also very common.

When to Call a Personal Injury Lawyer

If your child has been injured on an ATV, it’s a good idea to speak with a lawyer about your options. Since ATVs are capable of topping speeds of about 80 miles per hour, it’s critical to ensure everybody wears the proper safety equipment and is trained before riding. – Harris Personal Injury

The employment discrimination lawyers at Printy Law Firm can inform you of legal options you may not know you have. If you or a loved one has experienced an injury or wrongful death due to someone else’s negligence, contact The Personal Injury Department at Printy Law Firm.

Call today for a confidential consultation | Tampa 813.434.0649 | Tallahassee 850.877.7299