Hunting season will be in full swing soon and many Georgians will likely partake. While hunting can have various benefits and is a way to provide food and clothing, it can be extremely dangerous if the proper precautions are not taken. The obvious dangers are those of weapons meant to be used on the animals being hunted. While guns, bows and other weapons can be dangerous if not properly handed, a less commonly considered danger that many face while hunting is the use of all-terrain vehicles or ATVs. These vehicles provide an easier commute to and from hunting sites and are much easier for hunters than walking, but they should be used with caution. There are often reports of ATVs flipping over or crashing due to surroundings. Unfortunately, these vehicles do not offer much protection to the rider, so these crashes can be very serious.
Recently, the popular all-terrain vehicle brand Arctic Cat announced a recall to single-rider and 2 UP ATVs because of excess crash hazards. The defect is in the front gear case, where components may fail and cause drivers to lose control and wreck the ATVs. The model years affected includes 2008-2009 and affect numerous colors and styles sold at Arctic Cat dealers around the United States between May of 2007 and October of 2014. So far, there have been 44 reports of these components failing, resulting in four injuries. If you believe that you own one of these recalled ATVs, cease use immediately and contact Arctic Cat at (800) 279-6851 for repairs.
Even without being defective, ATVs can be very dangerous. The following safety precautions and tips should be followed while riding an all-terrain vehicle:
- Take a safety training course that educates drivers on the proper ATV controlling techniques in a variety of situations.
- Wear protective gear at all times. Helmets are the most important gear, but boots, gloves, goggles, long pants, and long-sleeved shirts or jackets will aid in protecting you in the event of a crash as well.
- Only carry a passenger or ride as a passenger if the ATV is designed to carry multiple people. A majority of all-terrain vehicles are meant for a single rider.
- Ride only on un-paved roads. These vehicles are not made to control easily on paved roads.
- Children should never be allowed on ATVs, either as passengers or drivers.
- Do not drive or ride an ATV after drinking or using drugs. Drunk driving involves operating any motor vehicle, including ATVs.
ATV accidents oftentimes leave victims with serious injuries, and sometimes even cause paralysis or death. If you or someone you love were injured in an ATV crash caused by another, call our office today at (770) 427-5498 to discuss your potential legal rights.
Categories: Catastrophic Injuries, Rollover Accidents
