ATV Accident Attorney in Savannah

ATV accidents can result in catastrophic injuries that require extensive medical treatment and can impact your ability to work. At Spiva Law Group, we’re dedicated to helping injury victims seek compensation for their medical expenses, lost wages, and other losses. Contact our law office today for a free consultation with an experienced Savannah ATV accident lawyer.

What Is an ATV?

According to Georgia law, an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) is a motorized vehicle designed for off-road use and equipped with low-pressure tires, a straddle seat, and steering handlebars. ATVs fall under the larger umbrella of multipurpose off-highway vehicles (MPOHVs).

Georgians use ATVs for various activities, ranging from farming and construction to recreation. However, it’s crucial to remember that these vehicles don’t have the same safety standards and equipment as cars and trucks, and riders should always use caution.

What Are Some Causes of Savannah ATV Accidents?

Some of the most common causes of ATV accidents in Savannah include:

• Speeding – When ATV riders speed, they have less time to react to obstacles in their path and are more likely to experience a rollover accident when turning.
• Overloading – Carrying more passengers or equipment than the ATV is designed for can increase the risk of accidents and injuries.
• Intoxicated Driving – Driving an ATV under the influence of drugs or alcohol drastically increases the likelihood of a serious accident.
• Defective Parts – Defective parts or poor maintenance may significantly injure ATV riders.

What Are Common Injuries from ATV Accidents in Savannah?

ATV injuries can be catastrophic, often involving blunt force trauma and crushing injuries.

Some of the most common and severe injuries suffered by riders and passengers in ATV accidents are:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries – TBIs occur when blunt force trauma to the head causes the brain to strike the inside of the skull. These injuries can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, causing permanent physical and cognitive disability.
• Spinal Cord Injuries – Spinal cords can become compressed or severed in serious accidents, leading to chronic pain or paralysis.
• Crushing Injuries – ATVs can weigh hundreds or thousands of pounds, causing significant crushing injuries during rollover accidents. The arms and legs are at particular risk of crushing.
• Broken Bones – As with other motor vehicle accidents, broken bones are common. Riders who are thrown from their ATVs can suffer broken arms, wrists, and legs on impact.
• Internal Injuries – Internal organ damage is a serious concern after significant ATV accidents. It’s always a good idea to receive medical treatment after a crash, even if you initially feel fine.

Is Insurance Required to Operate an ATV in Georgia?

While insurance is not required for ATV use off-road and on private property, according to Georgia Regulation 560-10-23-.04(2), ATV riders must carry motor vehicle liability insurance when operating on public highways. Most motor vehicle liability coverage does not include coverage for ATVs by default. However, ATV coverage is typically available for an added cost.

What Are Some Safety Tips for Avoiding Accidents While Riding an ATV?

Keep these safety tips in mind to protect yourself while riding an ATV in Savannah:

• Wear protective gear like gloves and full-face helmets.
• Avoid speeding, especially around turns where rollovers are more likely to occur.
• Never ride while intoxicated.
• Do not have more passengers on the vehicle than there are seats.
• Do not attempt tricks or stunts.

Who Can Be Held Liable for a Savannah ATV Accident?

Determining fault after a Savannah ATV accident is a crucial step in seeking the compensation you deserve.

Some of the parties that could be liable for your injuries include:

• ATV Drivers – If another ATV driver’s negligence contributed to your injuries, you may be able to hold them financially responsible.
• Property Owners – If your ATV accident occurred due to a hazardous condition on private property, the property owner could be liable. Their homeowner’s liability insurance may cover the incident.
• ATV Manufacturers – If a defective part contributed to the accident responsible for your injuries, the ATV manufacturer could be liable under product liability. Product liability cases don’t rely on proving negligence, which can make it easier to hold manufacturers financially accountable.

What Types of Compensation Could I Receive for an ATV Accident Claim?

ATV accident victims can seek compensation for the various losses they suffered due to their injuries. Some of the types of compensation most frequently sought include:

• Medical Expenses – This compensation covers hospital stays, surgeries, medical treatments, medical devices, prescription medications, and physical therapy.
• Lost Wages – This compensation is for the income you lost during your recovery and the income and benefits you will lose because of your injury’s impact on your ability to work.
• Pain and Suffering – This compensation is for the physical pain and emotional suffering caused by your injuries.
• Permanent Disability – This compensation is for accommodating any permanent disability you suffered, such as by installing wheelchair ramps or lifts in your home or vehicle or hiring in-home care.

Does Georgia Have a Time Limit for Filing an ATV Accident Lawsuit?

Under Georgia Code section 9-3-33, ATV accident victims have two years to file lawsuits against the parties responsible for their injuries. Failure to file your lawsuit within this deadline could result in losing your right to seek the compensation you need and deserve. When you hire a Savannah ATV accident lawyer, you can protect your legal rights and avoid missing the relevant deadline.

Contact a Savannah ATV Accident Lawyer

Since 1984, Spiva Law Group’s compassionate Savannah personal injury attorneys have tackled the toughest personal injury cases and secured more than $500 million for our clients. Our firm has five attorneys and a seasoned staff made up of skilled investigators, paralegals, a claims manager, legal assistants, a receptionist, and clerical assistants. See what our clients say about working with our team:

“Howard Spiva is an extremely professional and deeply caring attorney. He has an impressive grasp of the law and will get you the best outcome. If you’re in an accident and it happens in Savannah, get the best attorney and give Spiva Law a call.”

If you’ve suffered a catastrophic injury in an ATV accident in Savannah, Georgia, contact our law firm for exceptional service, legal strength, and the results you need.