Understanding ATV Accidents in San Jose
ATVs are designed for using in off-road areas, and models designed for adult use can travel at very high speeds. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), since ATVs are often used on unpaved terrain and at relatively high speeds, they are at a high risk of overturning, ejecting operators and passengers, and collisions with other ATVs or stationary objects like trees. On an annual basis, there are more than 800 ATV-related deaths reported, and more than 100,000 people seek treatment for serious injuries caused by ATV accidents in emergency departments. A high rate of injuries and deaths associated with ATVs are kids under the age of 16.
It is important to know that ATVs are more common in some areas of the country than others, and ATV injuries occur more often in some states than others. California has one of the highest rates of ATV ownership and use in the country, according to the CPSC. In fact, California, along with just four other states, reports nearly one-third of all ATV deaths in the country.
Preventing ATV Accidents in San Jose
It is certainly possible to prevent ATV accidents that result in serious and fatal injuries in the San Jose area. The CPSC provides the following safety tips for all riders, as well as parents with teenage ATV operators, to consider:
- Sign up and complete hands-on ATV training from an instructor who is qualified to provide this type of training;
- Never ride an ATV with more passengers than there are available seats, and if you have an ATV designed only for the operator, do not add any passengers to the vehicle;
- Avoid riding an ATV on paved roads, including all public roads unless you are permitted to do so momentarily for crossing;
- Never consume alcohol before you operate an ATV;
- Wear a helmet to prevent head injuries, along with other safety gear in the event of an accident, including boots, gloves, pants and long-sleeves, and eye protection; and
- Never allow a rider under the age of 16 to use an adult-model ATV, and recognize that ATVs are not “one-size-fits-all” vehicles.
Contact Our San Jose ATV Accident Lawyers Today
Anyone who has been injured in an ATV accident should seek legal help. The attorneys at Venardi Zurada, LLP can answer any questions you have about ATV accidents in San Jose today. Call 833-893-6763 or contact us online today for a free consultation.
