Who is Liable for an ATV Accident?
Depending on the situation, there are multiple parties who may be liable for an ATV accident. The most common of these are as follows:
- ATV owners: Under state law, vehicle owners have a duty to ensure their vehicles can be safely operated. This extends to ATV owners such as private owners, rental companies, and resorts. Even when an ATV is safe for operation, vehicle owners must also ensure the driver is fit to operate it. When ATV owners allow someone who is under the influence, too young, or otherwise incapable of operating an ATV, they can also be held liable.
- Landowners: When a person is lawfully on another person’s property, the owner of the premises must ensure the area is safe. This includes clearly marking hazards, properly clearing trails, and taking other measures to ensure the property can be navigated safely.
- Negligent operators: Just like other types of vehicles, operators of ATVs must ensure they operate the vehicle safely. This includes traveling at a safe speed and otherwise acting in a reasonable manner to ensure safe operation, and only using an ATV in areas where they are allowed.
- Manufacturers: All manufacturers have a legal obligation to ensure their products are safe for others to use, including those that make ATVs. When a defective vehicle, or part of an ATV is faulty, the manufacturer of the product can be held liable.
It is not always easy to determine liability after an ATV accident. Our San Francisco ATV accident lawyer will conduct an investigation to determine who is liable for paying compensation.
Types of ATV Accidents
When most people ride an ATV, they want to experience the thrill of hitting a trail or road and riding in the open air. Unfortunately, there are many different types of ATV accidents that can occur. The most common of these are as follows:
- Rollovers
- Trail and road runoffs such as steep drop-offs, loose gravel, or mud
- Tire blowouts
- Collisions with other ATVs and other vehicles
- Collisions with stationary objects
- Rider inexperience
Even when it seems as though the ATV operator was to blame, such as after a single-vehicle crash, another party may be at least partly liable.
Our ATV Accident Lawyer in San Francisco Can Prove Your Case
If you were hurt in a collision, our San Francisco ATV accident lawyer at Venardi Zurada can help. We will conduct a full investigation to determine what caused your crash, collect evidence to prove your case, and help you obtain the full and fair damages you deserve. Call us today at (833) 893-6763 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and to get the legal help you need.
