All-terrain vehicles (ATV's) are three or four-wheeled motorized vehicles used in recreational and work related activities. Most ATV's are used for "off-roading" or riding on natural surfaces such as hills, mountains, mud and other outdoor tracks. Many ATV's can go as fast as 55 MPH and can weigh as heavy as a quarter of a ton. ATV's typically have a high center of gravity and narrow wheel base which creates an unreasonable risk of rollover, even on flat surfaces.

While dealers and manufacturers continue to push the limits of power and weight, more and more people are becoming killed and injured on ATV's. Statistics show that approximately 75% of ATV accidents result in serious damage to the head or spinal cord, causing lifelong physical problems and ailments, paralysis, even sudden death. Other injuries can include crushed limbs, broken bones, and lacerations.

Since many young people have not handled vehicles of this magnitude, the results can be especially serious. According to the Consumer Products Safety Commission, ATV driving leads to more than 700 deaths and more than 135,000 injuries annually in America, and about 30% of those involve children. In many states there is no minimum age for ATV riders, nor are helmet safety laws in place. Texas is among the top five states for ATV deaths, along with Pennsylvania, California, West Virginia and Kentucky.

If you or a loved one has suffered injuries resulting from an ATV accident, it is imperative to seek immediate medical treatment. It is then important to seek legal counsel to protect your legal rights. A qualified ATV accident lawyer, as listed on this site, can ensure that you receive compensation for your pain and suffering, any lost wages and medical bills.

Products liability refers to a manufacturer or seller being held liable for placing a defective product into the hands of a consumer. Products liability cases can include defective or poorly designed machinery, tools, motor vehicle defects, recreational products, pharmaceuticals and other defective products and equipment. A person injured by a defective or dangerous product may be eligible to file a lawsuit for product liability.

As all legal claims are subject to time limits, however, you may risk forfeiture of your right to financial compensation if you delay. Contact a LawInfo accident attorney today to discuss your specific legal claim and the litigation options available to you.