A recent fatal accident involving an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) highlights the importance of the safe operation. The ATV collided with a truck on a Golden Gate Estates roadway, killing the ATV passenger and injuring both drivers.
According to news reports, the ATV was driving illegally on the roadway when it attempted to cross an intersection and entered the truck's path. Although the Florida Highway Patrol is still investigating the ATV crash, alcohol was cited as a factor. Unfortunately, this tragedy is far too common in Florida, where ATVs and other off-road vehicles are common.
According to a recent study, there were approximately 1,117,000 emergency room visits and 495 deaths due to ATV injuries nationwide in 2001, increases of 211% and 159% respectively over 1993. In addition, statistics from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission show from 1982 to 2006 105 Florida children under the age of 16 died from ATV deaths.
To help avoid these deadly accidents, we would like to share the ATV Safety Institute’s “golden rules”:
- Always wear a DOT-compliant helmet, goggles, long sleeves, long pants, over-the-ankle boots, and gloves.
- Never ride on paved roads except to cross when done safely and permitted by law - another vehicle could hit you.
- ATVs are designed to be operated off-highway.
- Never ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Never carry a passenger on a single-rider ATV, and no more than one passenger on an ATV specifically designed for two people.
- Ride an ATV that's right for your age. Supervise riders younger than 16;
- ATVs are not toys.
- Ride only on designated trails and at a safe speed.
The Dellutri Law Group is focused on making bad situations better and putting lives back together. If you or someone you love has been seriously injured in a Naples accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. To learn more about your legal options, contact our experienced Naples injury attorneys for a free consultation.
