Latest ATV Accident Statistics
The Consumer Product Safety Commission keeps track of all of the injury and death reports related to ATVs. From the latest report, released in May of 2023, we see that from 2017 – 2019 the ATV accident statistics were:
- 310,500 ATV injuries treated in emergency rooms throughout the country
- There was an average of 500 fatalities each year due to ATV accidents
- 27 ATV incidents involved double fatalities
- 7% of ATV fatalities were under the age of 12
- 15% of fatalities were under the age of 16
- 30% of fatalities occurred with adults ages 55+
- 83% of decedents were male, 17% were female
According to the CPSC, there have been 193 reported ATV deaths in Pennsylvania from 2017 – 2019, third only to Texas when it comes to fatalities. In comparison, the report released in 2021 showed that from 2016 – 2018, there were 112 ATV deaths in Pennsylvania. During that time period, Pennsylvania ATV deaths were also third to Texas, who had the highest number of fatalities at 139.
These vehicles, though safe when used appropriately, come with extreme risks to the operators. There is virtually no protection for riders. Injuries from these crashes can result in:
- Spinal cord damages
- Severe brain/head trauma
- Broken and dislocated bones
- Severe lacerations or amputations
- Massive internal injuries or bleeding
Historical ATV Accident Data
A five year look at ATV incidents from 2017 – 2021 reveals that there were 517,700 emergency department-treated injuries in the United States, this equated to an annual average of around 103,540 emergency department-treated injuries.
According to the CPSC there was no statistically significant evidence of a linear trend in estimated injuries for the 5-year period (2017 – 2021); however, there was a significant decrease in estimated injuries between 2017 and 2018.
A review of historical ATV incident data found that 65% of ATV deaths (between 2010–2013) occurred due to the vehicle being overturned. Collisions are the other most frequently observed hazard associated with ATV-related fatalities. At least 61% of ATV fatalities in the previous sample were with stationary objects, such as trees, guard rails, or mailboxes. More than 30% occurred with other vehicles. The remaining collisions involved striking animals (4%) or pedestrian bystanders (<1%).
ATV injuries require immediate emergency medical care and often result in a person needing extended rehabilitation time in order to make a full recovery. Sometimes, though, an ATV crash victim is left permanently disabled.
Why They Happen
It is vital that any company operating these vehicles for recreational use follow all safety precautions. They should never allow a child to use an ATV and should always ensure that every rider is properly trained to use the vehicles. Helmets and other safety gear should be used. The ATVs themselves must be regularly inspected and maintained.
Trail operators should ensure that the trail being used is well-maintained and that riders are aware of any hazardous conditions.
Your Options Moving Forward
All-terrain vehicles are fun. In fact, they are a part of the culture in many areas across the country. When used safely and correctly, they can be a great tool to use around a person’s property. They can also provide plenty of recreational fun. However, there are times when ATVs can be dangerous and can result in an ATV accident.
Unfortunately, there are times when another person’s negligence causes injuries or fatalities on an ATV. Sometimes, people are hurt while riding on another person’s personal ATV. Other times, the fault lies with a company that does not take proper safety measures.
Please seek legal assistance if you think that another person’s negligence has caused you to harm in an ATV crash. At SMT Legal, we will work to investigate your claim so we can secure the compensation you need for all of your accident-related expenses. This can include:
- Your medical bills
- Lost income if you cannot work
- Pain and suffering damages
- Possible punitive damages
If you need a Pittsburgh ATV accident lawyer, you can count on the team at SMT Legal to be by your side.