Riding an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) is a fun and convenient way to get around British Columbia. But because ATVs and other off-road vehicles (ORVs) lack many of the safety features found in passenger vehicles, any accidents can result in severe injuries. According to Statistics Canada, an average of 100 people die in ATV accidents across the country each year. Many more suffer painful injuries that require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
Compensation might be possible if you were hurt in a crash involving an all-terrain vehicle in BC. Call or contact Warnett Hallen LLP today for a free case review with a Vancouver ATV accident lawyer.
ATV Accident Stats in Canada and British Columbia
According to the British Columbia Coroners Service (BCCS), 127 people died in ATV accidents across the province in one recent decade. According to the data, alcohol or drugs contributed to just over half of all ATV fatalities, and more than one-third of deaths occurred in summer.
Most of the individuals killed in ATV crashes are drivers. Nearly half of ATV fatalities in Canada are from rollover accidents.
Who is Especially at Risk for ATV Accidents?
The Canadian Press reports that across Canada, children under age 16 are overrepresented among those killed in ATV accidents, accounting for nearly one-quarter of ATV-related fatalities across the country.
Data from the BCCS shows that 84 percent of people killed in ATV crashes in British Columbia in a recent decade were male. Additionally, ATV riders between the ages of 20 and 29 were the most likely to die in an ATV collision, followed by riders aged 30 to 39.
Common ATV Accident Injuries
Some of the most common injuries that occur in British Columbia ATV accidents include:
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Spinal cord injury
- Neck and back injuries
- Internal organ damage
- Internal bleeding
- Broken bones and joint injuries
- Crushed or amputated limbs
- Facial scarring and disfigurement
- Death
Who Can be Held Liable for ATV Accidents?
Potentially liable parties in an ATV accident case include:
- The driver of the ATV, if you were a passenger
- The owner of the ATV, if different from the driver or if the driver is under 18
- The driver of another vehicle involved in the crash
- The manufacturer of a defective ATV
Tips to Avoid ATV Accidents
- Follow British Columbia laws about how and where you can use ATVs.
- Make sure that all passengers on an ATV have a designated seat.
- Do not drink alcohol or use drugs before operating an ATV.
- Watch your speed.
- Wear safety gear like an off-road vehicle safety helmet, eye protection, long pants, and a long shirt.
- Perform routine maintenance on your ATV.
How Can an Experienced ATV Lawyer in British Columbia Help Me?
Getting compensation for an ATV accident injury can be challenging, especially while you’re coping with severe injuries and trying to get your life back on track. The lawyers at Warnett Hallen LLP can take the burden off your shoulders and fight for maximum compensation for you. Call or contact our firm today for a free consultation.
