Baton Rouge ATV Accident Lawyer

Representing Injured Victims

ATV riding is a popular way to spend a weekend in Louisiana. But as fun as these vehicles are, ATVs come with many risks. ATV accidents can cause severe injuries, and some victims are forced to spend thousands on medical bills and other expenses. If you’ve been injured on an ATV, our ATV accident attorney can help you recover compensation and hold liable parties accountable.

Walter R. Krousel Jr. & Associates, APLC, is here to help our clients get the settlement they deserve. ATV-related injuries can have long-term consequences on your life, and you can reclaim damages to pay for your expenses.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. To talk to an experienced Louisiana ATV accident attorney, call (225) 263-6194 today.

What is an ATV?

ATV stands for “all-terrain vehicle.” Any vehicle designed to travel over natural or rough terrain away from traditional roads is considered an ATV. In most cases, ATVs have four wheels and are lightweight with minimal safety features.

Off-road vehicles have a more broad definition under Louisiana law. Off-road vehicles can be three-wheelers, four-wheelers, or dirt bikes. State law also covers UTVs, or “utility terrain vehicles.” These recreational vehicles can weigh between 700 and 3,500 pounds.

Because ATVs are designed for natural terrain, ATV accidents can be complex. These accident claims don’t follow traditional motor vehicle accident rules. Many different situations can cause an ATV accident, and your circumstances may implicate more than one liable party. Our team will conduct a thorough investigation into your case to ensure you are presented with all your legal options.

What Are the Most Common Injuries After an ATV Accident?

ATVs can reach speeds up to 90 miles an hour. Because ATVs don’t have traditional safety features, ATV accident victims often suffer from severe injuries. Even riders who are wearing helmets and other safety gear could be injured long-term or suffer lifetime symptoms.
The most common injuries in an ATV accident include:

Broken Bones

Many riders break their arms or wrists in an ATV accident. Riders can also break their legs or collar bones if they land on the ground at a bad angle. While some broken bones heal in just a cast, others require surgery and physical therapy.

Neck and Back Injuries

Injuries to the neck and back can cause permanent disabilities, including paralysis. Spinal injuries, in particular, have the potential to cause pain, tingling, and numbness.

Brain Injuries

Victims who hit their heads have a very high chance of developing a brain injury. Traumatic brain injuries can lead to symptoms like memory loss, slurred speech, and confusion. Brain injuries are difficult to treat and can lead to permanent conditions.

Cuts and Bruises

Even minor injuries can lead to complications. Cuts, bruises, and lacerations can be severe. Injured victims may be prone to infection, and many people require stitches.
ATV accident cases also sometimes involve fatalities. If your loved one was killed in an ATV accident, you may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim on their behalf. To learn more about wrongful death cases, contact our law offices today.

What Are the Common Causes of ATV Accidents?

ATV accidents can happen for many reasons. Because they are solely operated on rough and natural terrain, there are often more obstacles in the road than in typical passenger cars.
Other common causes of ATV accidents include:

Operator Negligence

Operating an ATV is different from driving a car. If a rider is inexperienced, they could injure themselves or others.

Defective Equipment

Defects in the manufacturing process can cause engine and brake malfunctions. If you were injured because of a defective ATV, you may be able to file a claim against the manufacturer.

Dangerous Trails

Property owners who allow ATV riders must be aware of the hazards on their roads. If property owners neglect to maintain their terrain, they can be liable for injured riders.

What Kind of Compensation Can You Receive in an ATV Accident Case?

Many ATV accidents cause extensive injuries that lead to financial damages. The damages you accrue because of an ATV accident can be recovered through a personal injury case.
In most cases, victims ask for the following:

Economic Damages

Economic damages include any damages that have a specific dollar amount. Economic damages may include:

Medical expenses
Property damage repair
Lost wages from taking time off work
Loss of future income

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages have to do with your well-being after an accident. They include:

Mental anguish
Emotional suffering
Pain and suffering
Loss of enjoyment of life
Loss of companionship (in wrongful death cases)

What Should You Do After an ATV Accident?

If you’ve been in an ATV accident, your safety should be your top priority. There are a few steps you can take to ensure you are safe and to protect your rights.
After an ATV accident, be sure to do the following:

Seek Medical Attention

ATV accidents are dangerous. Even if you don’t feel injured now, get checked out by a medical professional. You could have underlying injuries that aren’t apparent yet.

Talk to Witnesses

Witnesses can help support your claim later. If anyone else saw the accident, get their contact information.

Take Photos

Take photos of the accident scene, your ATV, and any injuries. Keep copies of any documents you receive after the crash.

Contact an ATV Accident Attorney

Our team is prepared to pursue your case immediately. Contact us today for legal help.

Do You Need a Personal Injury Lawyer?

ATV accidents often result in serious injuries. If you’ve been hurt on an ATV, you need a personal injury attorney on your side to represent your best interests.

Walter R. Krousel Jr. & Associates, APLC, is here to recover maximum compensation for your injuries. We are confident that with our experience, we can get you the outcome you deserve. Whether you’re ready to seek compensation or you have questions about your case, call us today at (225) 263-6194 for a free consultation.