All-terrain vehicles, or ATVs, are popular recreational vehicles in Texas. ATVs are commonly used in rural locations for outdoor camping trips and for just having fun. While ATVs are enjoyable and entertaining, they can also be dangerous, especially when not driven safely. If you are injured in an accident, contact our ATV accident lawyers.
If you were hurt in an ATV accident, you might face steep medical bills and rehabilitation expenses. If the accident was due to someone else’s negligence, you might be owed compensation for your injuries. It is best to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney to assist you in your claim.
Laws That Pertain to ATVs in Texas
Texas is one of the leading states for ATV injuries and fatalities. This is likely because there are many ATVs in our state and scenic, expansive areas to ride them. That, coupled with our temperate climate, makes ATV riding one of the state’s most common forms of recreation.
ATVs are subject to state and federal laws. According to the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles, TXDMV, to operate an ATV on public property, it must have a brake system, muffler system, head and taillights, and a U.S. Forest Service-qualified spark arrester. In addition, it must have a valid Off-Highway Vehicle decal issued through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. In addition, ATV riders must wear protective headgear when driving on public property.
Preventing ATV Accidents and Injuries
Unfortunately, many ATVs are operated on private land and, therefore, are not subject to some important safety laws. You do not need a driver’s license to drive an ATV, making them extremely attractive to teens. In addition, you are not required to have insurance. If you own an ATV, you should ensure that you take all of the safety precautions possible, even if they are not required by law.
One of the most important safety considerations is using a protective helmet. Do not allow anyone to ride your ATV without a helmet that fits properly. Drivers should be cautious, especially in unfamiliar areas and when other ATVs are present.
Do not allow more than one rider on an ATV at a time. Do not allow young children to ride ATVs; give teens thorough instructions before allowing them to ride. ATV accidents are similar to Jet Ski accidents.
Because ATVs are open vehicles, drivers are subject to serious injuries when the ATV crashes or overturns. ATVs are often driven in rural areas where emergency responders can take some time to arrive if there is an accident—instruct riders on safety precautions and what to do if an accident happens.
Injuries due to ATV accidents can be extremely severe. Some common injuries include back and neck injuries, head trauma, and broken bones.
Get Help From an Experienced ATV Accident Lawyer
Contact Baumgartner Law Firm’s personal injury lawyers today to discuss your legal options if you or a loved one were hurt in an ATV accident in Houston, Texas.
Call 281-587-1111!
Resources:
https://www.dps.texas.gov/msb/documents/VDRchart.pdf
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