All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are frequently used for work and play in British Columbia. However, ATVs and other off-road vehicles (ORVs) can turn into death machines if operators fail to follow the rules for safe driving. This is because ATVs lack many safety features found in other vehicles. Getting prompt medical treatment can also be challenging if an ATV accident happens in a rural area of the province.
The good news is most ATV accidents are preventable. Keep reading for the top safety tips from the Vancouver ATV accident lawyers at Warnett Hallen LLP.
Are ATVs Dangerous?
Any motor vehicle can be dangerous, including ATVs. However, certain factors can make ATVs especially perilous if riders and passengers are not careful.
Some ATVs can reach highway speeds, just like cars and commercial trucks. But unlike other motor vehicles, ATVs are not equipped with standard safety features like seat belts, airbags, and crumple zones. That means ATV drivers and passengers are more exposed to the forces of impact than other vehicle occupants. ATVs also handle differently from cars and drivers need experience to drive one safely.
Top 7 Safety Tips for ATVs and ORVs in British Columbia
Here are a few ATV rules to remember when riding in British Columbia:
- Follow BC ATV laws. British Columbia’s ATV laws cover everything from how these vehicles should be registered to where you can ride them, so make sure you follow all the regulations.
- Do not treat ATVs like toys. An ATV or ORV is a powerful, heavy vehicle that can cause extreme injuries to riders and others nearby. Taking ATV and ORV safety seriously is a crucial step in preventing an accident.
- Avoid riding with too many passengers. No one should ride on an ATV or ORV unless they have a designated seat. That generally means riding by yourself or with one other passenger.
- Don’t drink and drive. Staying sober is just as important when riding an ATV or ORV as when you are behind the wheel of a car.
- Don’t speed. Going too fast in an ATV makes it harder to stay in control and avoid a collision.
- Wear safety gear. Helmets are critical to staying safe while riding an ATV, but additional gear like goggles, boots, long pants, and long shirts can help protect you in an accident.
- Maintain your ATV. Keeping your ATV in good order will ensure that crucial parts don’t break down while riding and cause an accident.
What To Do After an ATV Accident
Seek medical attention immediately after a crash. You may have serious injuries that need treatment. Next, contact an ATV accident lawyer to learn whether you could be entitled to compensation for your injuries.
Contact an ATV Accident Lawyer in Vancouver for a Free Consultation
Compensation might be possible if another party’s carelessness led to an ATV crash and your injuries. Talk to a Vancouver ATV accident lawyer at Warnett Hallen LLP today. The first consultation is free, and there’s no fee unless we win.
