Latest Blogs

ATVs and UTVs are popular throughout Florida. From recreation to hunting, people use these off-highway vehicles for a variety of different reasons. Unfortunately, riding ATVs and UTVs presents several dangers, and thousands of people of all ages suffer injuries and lose their lives in accidents each year. In this article, Fort Myers accident attorney Randall L. Spivey discusses some of the biggest dangers and ways to avoid them.

10 Dangers of ATV and UTV Riding in Florida

1. ATV and UTV Rollovers

Rollover accidents are among the leading causes of serious injuries and death associated with ATVs and UTVs. ATV and UTV engines sit relatively high, which means that these vehicles have a high center of gravity. When you add a rider on top, the center of gravity becomes even higher. This high center of gravity presents a high risk for rollover accidents.

2. Collisions Between ATVs and UTVs

Collisions between ATVs and UTVs happen for a variety of different reasons. In some cases, riders may not see or hear one another until it is too late. In others, one or both riders may lack the knowledge and experience required to safely avoid a dangerous collision.

3. Collisions with Trees and Other Objects

Collisions with trees and other objects are also common as well. Speed is a common factor in these accidents, but they can result from factors ranging from brake failures to distracted riding as well.

4. On-Pavement Use

ATVs and UTVs are not designed for on-pavement use. While their tires provide good grip on gravel and other loose surfaces, they can be slippery on roadways. Riding on roads allows for faster speeds as well, and this also contributes to an increased risk of accidents.

5. Carrying Passengers

Unless an ATV or UTV is designed for two or more riders, only one rider should be on an ATV or UTV at a time. Carrying additional passengers adds weight and limits mobility—both of which can increase the risk of rollovers and other accidents.

6. Inexperienced ATV and UTV Operation

Many ATV and UTV accidents happen within the rider’s first few experiences behind the wheel. Learning how to ride safely requires instruction and practice in a controlled environment.

7. Lack of Supervision

Lack of supervision is a common factor in ATV and UTV accidents as well—especially those involving teens and younger children. Parents and other adults should only allow children to operate ATVs and UTVs under strict supervision and in compliance with Florida law.

8. Performing Dangerous Stunts and Maneuvers

Attempting to perform wheelies, sharp turns and other dangerous maneuvers often leads to ATV accidents. People often see other riders perform these maneuvers (either in person or online) and then assume they can perform them as well—without having a clear understanding of the limits of their ATV or the physics involved.

9. Riding on Unfamiliar Terrain

Riding on unfamiliar terrain can lead to accidents even for experienced ATV and UTV riders. Hills, rocks, mud, and other unexpected hazards can all create dangerous situations that can result in collisions, rollovers and other types of accidents.

10. Riding Without a Helmet

Wearing a helmet is one of the most-important things ATV riders can do to protect themselves (and it’s also the law for riders under 16 years of age who are riding on public land). Riding without a helmet increases the risks of being injured in an accident substantially, as riders who aren’t wearing helmets are far more likely to suffer concussions and other traumatic brain injuries (TBI).

Tips for Avoiding ATV and UTV Accidents

With these dangers in mind, there are some simple steps that ATV and UTV riders can take to reduce their risk of being injured in an accident. These steps include:

• Stick to the trails, and be cautious when riding in unfamiliar areas
• Never ride beyond your capabilities
• Never ride as a passenger (or let a passenger ride) on a one-person ATV
• Always pay attention while riding an ATV or UTV, and be wary of other riders in your vicinity
• Wear a helmet every time you ride an ATV or UTV

Contact Fort Myers Accident Attorney Randall L. Spivey to Discuss Your Legal Options After an Accident

In many cases, individuals who suffer injuries and families who lose loved ones in ATV and UTV accidents are entitled to financial compensation under Florida law. If you need to know more about filing a claim for an ATV or UTV accident, we encourage you to get in touch. To schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with Fort Myers accident attorney Randall L. Spivey, please call Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A. at 239-337-7483 or 888-477-4839 or reach out to us online today.