All-terrain vehicles (ATVs), also known as four-wheelers or quads, are motorized vehicles designed with four low-pressure tires and a seat that riders straddle like a motorcycle. While these powerful machines offer excitement, they can also be involved in serious and sometimes fatal accidents.
When ATV accidents happen, you need an Austin personal injury attorney on your side who can help rebuild your life. Backed by years of legal experience, Dow Law Firm is dedicated to securing fair compensation for injured people throughout Texas.
If you have been hurt, we urge you to contact our ATV accident lawyers in Austin today to discuss your accident and begin building your legal strategy.
Texas ATV Operation Laws and Regulations
In Texas, you can only operate ATVs on designated trails and areas on public lands, and you must obtain an Off-Highway Vehicle Decal from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department before doing so. On private property, you need explicit permission from the landowner before riding.
When operating on public off-highway vehicle land or authorized roads, your ATV must be equipped with:
- Functioning brake and muffler systems
- A working headlight and taillight
- A U.S. Forest Service-qualified spark arrester
- The required Off-Highway Vehicle decal
Common Causes of ATV Accidents in Austin
ATV accidents can happen for a variety of reasons, from weather conditions to malfunctioning equipment. However, operator error contributes to the majority of these incidents. Some of the leading causes of ATV accidents in Austin include:
- Inexperienced drivers who underestimate the vehicle’s power and handling requirements
- Operating the ATV at excessive speeds for the terrain and weather conditions
- Riding on paved surfaces, where ATV tires are not designed to be used
- Carrying multiple passengers on single-operator ATVs
- Attempting dangerous stunts or maneuvers while operating an ATV
- Riding an ATV under the influence of alcohol, illegal drugs, or prescription medicines
In cases where an ATV accident leads to a fatality, surviving family members may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim. An Austin wrongful death lawyer at Dow Law Firm can help families seek justice and recover the compensation they deserve.
ATV Accident Victims Are Entitled to Financial Compensation
If you were involved in an ATV accident in Austin and someone else was at fault, you have legal options available to you. You have the right to file a legal claim against everyone who contributed to the incident, including the operator, ATV manufacturer, or the entity in charge of the property you were riding on.
For example, ATV operators and owners face liability for negligent operation or inadequate supervision of minors. Manufacturers are liable when defective ATVs or ATV components cause an accident. If hazardous conditions caused the accident, the property owner or government entity in charge of land maintenance may be at fault.
How an Austin ATV Accident Lawyer Advocates for You
When an ATV accident happens, you deserve to focus on healing and recovery, not legal procedures or paperwork. Dow Law Firm will advocate for your rights every step of the way.
Your ATV accident lawyer in Austin will conduct a comprehensive investigation to identify all negligent parties and pursue maximum compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. If negotiations do not yield a fair settlement, we won’t hesitate to take your case to trial and argue for your side of the story before the court.
Contact Dow Law Firm’s ATV Accident Attorneys in Austin for a Free Consultation
Your off-road adventure shouldn’t end in serious injury. When ATV accidents happen, you deserve compensation that covers your full recovery. Our Austin ATV accident lawyers will advocate for your rights during this difficult time.
Contact Dow Law Firm at (512) 240-9951 for a free consultation and let us fight for the justice you deserve.