All-terrain vehicles (ATV) are 3- or 4-wheel vehicles used for driving off-road. They usually provide little protection for riders, yet can go up to speeds of 75 mph and are made for use on rugged terrain. ATVs are often used for rescue and medical assistance in unpaved areas but are just as frequently used for fun and adventure in the woods. If you have suffered an ATV injury while riding anywhere in New Jersey, you need a personal injury attorney who can get you the compensation you deserve for your accident.
Who can operate an ATV?
In the state of New Jersey, you do not need a permit or license to operate an ATV. However, the state law does say the vehicle must be registered and you must observe the following regulations:
- The driver must be 14.
- Carry proof of liability insurance and current registration.
- Use off-road only.
- If you are under 18 years old, you must enroll in the ATV Safety Institute course to operate an ATV. If you are operating a dirt bike you must enroll in the safety course provided by dirtbikeschool.com to obtain a safety certificate.
- Anyone under the age of 16 is prohibited from operating an ATV or dirt bike with an engine capacity greater than 90 cubic centimeters during training or while on public lands.
- Individuals cannot sell a powerful ATV or dirt bike to anyone under 16 years of age.
Because you only have to be 14 to operate an ATV and there is no permit or license required, the operator may not fully understand how to safely navigate off-road, resulting in an unnecessary accident.
Types of ATV Accidents
ATV accidents can occur for many reasons.
- Driving under the influence – Operating an ATV under the influence of drugs or alcohol is just as dangerous and illegal as driving a car while intoxicated. In fact, 30% of ATV accidents occur because of drugs or alcohol.
- Inexperience – Inexperienced drivers are over 10 times more likely to cause an accident than individuals who have experience operating an ATV.
- Using the wrong size ATV – The ATV industry recommends different sizes of ATV based on the size of the operator. This is because your body weight is necessary to make the vehicle turn properly. If too small of a teen is operating an adult-sized ATV, they will not be able to control the vehicle.
- Driving recalled vehicles – Many 3-wheel ATVs were recalled in the 1980s because of their higher rollover risk. Unfortunately, many of these vehicles still exist and can be extremely dangerous to operate.
Have you suffered an injury?
If you have been in an accident or suffered an injury on an ATV in New Jersey, or have been injured because of another ATV rider, you need a competent personal injury lawyer. Contact Attorney Anthony Carbone today for a free consultation and find out how to receive the compensation you deserve. CALL NOW
