Sara
"I worked with Bill Pickett and he was willing to fight, and fight hard for me as his client and is the reason I was able to walk away with a win. Would recommend to anyone and everyone, incredibly professional and knowledgable."
Maureen
Norma
Adam
What Sets ATV Accidents Apart from Other Accidents?
ATV accidents are often more dangerous than typical vehicle accidents due to the unique nature of these vehicles. ATVs lack the safety features of cars, like seat belts and enclosed cabins, making riders more vulnerable to injury in the event of a collision or rollover.
ATVs are also frequently used on remote and uneven terrain, such as:
- ATV Trails
- Hills & Mountains
- Off-roading Areas
This terrain increases the likelihood of accidents caused by losing control or flipping the vehicle. Additionally, there are few standardized safety regulations, and lack of proper training for many riders can lead to more severe outcomes.
Because of these factors, injuries sustained in ATV accidents often include head trauma, spinal injuries, broken bones, and other critical conditions that can require more extensive medical attention and rehabilitation.
5 Common Causes of ATV Accidents
There are five common causes of ATV accidents that we regularly see at LGP Law:
- Reckless Driving | Speeding, dangerous stunts, and failure to follow safety guidelines are frequent contributors to accidents.
- Operator Error | A lack of experience or improper handling often leads to loss of control.
- Defective Equipment | Mechanical failures, such as faulty brakes or steering issues, can result in devastating crashes.
- Unsafe Terrain | Riding on rough, steep, or narrow trails increases the likelihood of rollovers.
- Negligence of Others | Vehicles colliding with other ATVs or cars, especially where inattentive or reckless driving is involved.
Our personal injury attorneys excel at identifying the exact causes of your accident to hold the responsible parties accountable.
Common ATV Accident & Side-by-Side Injuries
ATV accidents can result in a range of injuries, including:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) | Even with helmets, high-impact accidents can lead to long-term cognitive issues or memory loss.
- Spinal Cord Injuries & Paralysis | Partial or complete paralysis is a serious, life-altering consequence of ATV accidents.
- Broken Bones | Fractures in arms, legs, or ribs often require surgery and extensive rehabilitation.
- Lacerations & Crush Injuries | Deep cuts or severe crushing injuries can lead to infections and long-term issues like wound care or permanent loss of function.
- Internal Injuries | Damage to internal organs, such as the liver or lungs, often requires immediate medical intervention.
If you or a loved one has suffered such injuries, our attorneys will work closely with medical experts to accurately document the impact on your life and ensure fair compensation for your recovery.
How is Liability Determined in ATV Accidents?
Determining who is responsible for an ATV accident often requires a thorough investigation. Potentially liable parties include:
- Reckless ATV Drivers | If you're injured as a passenger or by another rider’s negligence, they may be held accountable.
- Manufacturers | Defective ATVs or faulty parts can also lead to product liability claims.
- Property Owners | Landowners who fail to warn of hazards on off-roading trails or private properties can be liable.
Our experienced attorneys at LGP Law will gather evidence, review safety regulations, and consult with accident reconstruction experts to determine who is at fault.
Compensation for Yakima ATV Accident Victims
Victims of ATV accidents often face hefty expenses and emotional suffering. At LGP Law, we'll fight to recover appropriate compensation for you, including:
- Medical Costs | Covering emergency care, surgeries, physical therapy, and future treatment. Because ATV accidents can happen in remote areas, this may also include rescue efforts and airlifts.
- Lost Wages | Reimbursement for any income you lost during your recovery, and potentially compensation for reduced earning capacity.
- Pain & Suffering | You can also be compensated for the physical and emotional toll these injuries placed on your life, including PTSD and anxiety.
- Property Damage | You may be entitled to compensation for repairs or replacement of damaged ATVs or your personal belongings.
- Wrongful Death & Loss of Consortium | If the accident resulted in the tragic loss of a loved one, compensation may be available for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and the financial support they provided.
Our attorneys will meticulously calculate your economic and non-economic damages to ensure you’re fully compensated.
Get Started
Some attorneys will settle ATV accidents early in the process because they feel it is not worth their time.
At LGP Law, our Yakima lawyers take every case seriously – from start to finish – to ensure you get everything you deserve.
What Steps Should I Take After an ATV Accident?
Taking the right actions after an ATV accident is crucial for protecting your health and building a strong legal case. We recommend you:
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention | Ensure your injuries are treated promptly to safeguard your health. It is also critical to your case that the extent of your injuries are documented well by medical professionals.
- Report the Incident | Contact local authorities to document the side-by-side accident and begin a paper trail.
- Collect Evidence | If you can do so safely, take photos of the crash scene, injuries, and property damage.
- Gather Witness Information | Secure contact information for any witnesses or bystanders who saw the ATV accident.
- Avoid Statements to Insurance Companies | Insurance does NOT want to pay you what you probably deserve. DO NOT discuss fault or accept any settlements with insurance companies before you consult an ATV accident attorney.
If you’re unable to take some of these steps due to your injuries, our legal team can help you gather evidence and handle all communication with insurers.
Frequently Asked Questions About ATV Accidents
ATV accidents can be overwhelming and complex, often raising many questions about liability, compensation, and the steps to take following an incident. Below, we'll address some of the most frequently asked questions we receive about side-by-side and ATV accidents to help you make more informed decisions.
1. Who can file a claim after an ATV accident?
Any victims, including riders, passengers, or pedestrians, are eligible to file a personal injury claim if another party's negligence caused the accident. You can also file on behalf of a loved one who passed away. When you contact us, our personal injury attorneys can help you determine whether you're eligible.
2. What is the time limit for filing an ATV accident claim in Washington?
The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Washington state is typically three years from the date of the accident. Missing this deadline may bar you from seeking compensation. If you've experienced a side-by-side or ATV accident, contact LGP Law immediately.
3. Can I still sue if I was partially at fault?
Yes. Washington follows a comparative fault system, meaning your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault, but you can still recover damages.
4. What if my ATV or Side-by-Side was defective?
If a manufacturing defect caused your accident, you may have a product liability case against the manufacturer or retailer. This is something LGP Law will investigate when you contact us.
5. How much is my case worth?
The value of your case depends entirely on factors such as medical expenses, lost income, and the severity of your injuries. Our attorneys will evaluate your situation to provide an accurate estimate.
What Makes LGP Law the Right Choice for Me?
Choosing the right attorney can make all the difference in a personal injury case. Here’s why Yakima residents trust us with their ATV accident claims:
- Proven Experience | We have decades of practice in personal injury law with a strong track record of favorable outcomes.
- Client-Focused Approach | We prioritize clear communication and personalized strategies for every case. We promise to keep you in the loop every step of the way.
- Contingency-Based Fees | You won’t pay unless we secure compensation for you. You have nothing to lose by talking to us about your ATV accident.
- Local Knowledge & Commitment | Our ATV accident attorneys are deeply familiar and rooted in Yakima’s legal landscape and the greater community of Washington state.
At LGP Law, we treat you like family, and we are committed to pursuing justice on your behalf.
Get Started | Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has been injured in an ATV accident in Yakima, you don’t have to face this ordeal alone. LGP Law's expert attorneys are here to handle the legal complexities while you focus on recovery. Our team offers free consultations to evaluate your case and outline the best course of action. There are no upfront fees, and we only get paid if we win your case.
Your path to justice and full compensation can start with a single step — contact us today to schedule your free consultation. We're here to fight for you.