ATVs and off-road vehicles are a favorite way for Texans to enjoy the outdoors during the summer months. From ranch trails to wooded backroads and recreational parks, these vehicles offer both excitement and access to remote areas. But what begins as a day of fun can quickly turn dangerous. Every year, riders are seriously injured due to accidents involving ATVs, UTVs, and other off-road machines.
These crashes can result from a range of causes, including reckless riding and mechanical failure, and the aftermath is often confusing, painful, and costly. If you or a loved one has been injured in an off-road vehicle accident, it’s important to know your legal rights. Taking the correct steps after an accident can help ensure you get the medical care you need and the compensation you deserve. In Texas, off-road injury claims can be complex, so knowing how to protect yourself is the first step toward recovery.
Steps to Take After an ATV Accident
After an ATV or off-road vehicle accident, your first priority should always be safety. If you or anyone else is injured, call for emergency medical assistance immediately. Even if injuries seem minor, seek a medical evaluation, as some conditions may not exhibit visible symptoms immediately.
Once the risk of injury has passed, you could benefit from taking the time to document the scene. Start by taking photos of the vehicle, any visible injuries, terrain conditions, and any other relevant details. If other riders or vehicles were involved, exchange contact and insurance information, and gather names and statements from any witnesses.
Preserve evidence by keeping the ATV or off-road vehicle in its post-accident condition if possible, especially if you suspect a mechanical failure or equipment defect. If the accident occurred on public land, report it to the appropriate authority, such as a park ranger or local sheriff. For rental vehicles, notify the company right away and request an incident report.
Finally, avoid making statements that admit fault, even casually. Stick to the facts when speaking with others at the scene, including law enforcement. Early documentation and careful communication can make a major difference when it’s time to file a claim.
Filing a Legal Claim After an Off-Road Accident
If you’ve been injured in an ATV or off-road vehicle accident, you may be entitled to compensation, but pursuing a claim requires prompt and careful action. Begin by consulting a personal injury attorney who has experience handling cases involving off-road or recreational vehicles.
Your attorney will help identify who may be responsible—whether it’s another rider, a negligent property owner, a rental company, or even the vehicle manufacturer. If your claim is successful, you could recover an array of financial compensation from the responsible party.
Call Lopez Franco, PLLC, For Your Free Consultation
If you are considering legal action following a summer ATV or off-road vehicle accident in Texas, you do not have to walk this path alone. Contact Lopez Franco, PLLC, as soon as possible to schedule your free consultation with our team.