ATV’s are used for both farm work and recreation throughout Mississippi. Unfortunately, ATVs, including the Yamaha Rhino, come with a significant risk of serious injury and even death. There have been a number of serious Rhino and ATV accidents reported recently by media sources that have involved serious injuries and even death. These vehicles lack the structural protection and safety equipment that is standard on other motor vehicles. This lack of protection combined with the tendency of these vehicles to rollover makes their anticipated use on rough terrain particularly hazardous. ATVs have a high center of gravity and narrow wheelbase making it easy for them to tip when used on uneven terrain. Our experienced Rhino and ATV accident attorneys at Barrett Law represent those who suffer serious injury or wrongful death caused by these dangerous vehicles.

An ATV accident also can occur on residential streets because the vehicles do not handle particularly well. Further, the lack of protection means that when struck by a motor vehicle on a residential street the possibility of catastrophic injuries or fatalities is extremely high.

Hundreds of people die in ATV accidents each year, including more than 100 children. The numbers continue to rise as these off-road vehicles grow in popularity. Despite the tendency of ATVs to cause catastrophic and life threatening injuries, the use of safety equipment like a helmet, chest plate, and boots can help reduce the risk. Because head injuries constitute the leading cause of fatalities in ATV collisions, the decision to wear a helmet can significantly improve the survivability of a dangerous ATC crash.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) provides these ATV safety tips for ATV users:

• Riders should take a hands-on safety course.
• Drivers and passengers (if any) should always wear protective gear.
• Most ATVs are designed for only one, so you should not load on an additional passengers unless the vehicle is built for multiple riders.
• If you are under 16 years old, you should only ride a child-sized ATV.
• Riders should avoid streets and highways when piloting ATVs.
• Operators should never drive an ATV under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Driving safe when on an ATV is important, but sometimes you can do everything right and still be involved in a serious ATV or Rhino accident. The defective design, manufacture, or assembly of these vehicles cause many ATV and Rhino accidents. Other Rhino and ATV accidents result in injury to passengers from negligent Rhino operators or from motorists in other vehicles. If you have suffered serious injury or a loved one has suffered wrongful death in an SUV or Rhino accident, our experienced Mississippi personal injury attorneys will evaluate your situation and advise you regarding your rights to financial compensation. Our experienced team zealously pursues the best possible outcome when handling serious injury cases.

If you have been injured while riding an all-terrain vehicle, our Mississippi ATV Accident Lawyers are committed to seeking the maximum compensation for victims of dangerous vehicles. At Barrett Law, we are here to help. Contact our firm today at (601)790-1505 to schedule your free consultation, so we can answer any questions you may have regarding filing your claim.