ATV rider showing thumbs up to his partner.

Tulsa ATV Accident Lawyer

If you were hurt in an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) accident in Tulsa, Edwards & Patterson Law can help. We provide caring and assertive legal representation that gets results. If another party caused your injury, we can fight for you.

Our Tulsa ATV accident lawyers can investigate your claim, identify liable parties, and build a solid case establishing your right to compensation. Let us use our over 50 years of combined legal experience to demand the money you need to get back on your feet. Complete our online contact form or call 24/7 for a free case review.

What Is an ATV?

According to the Oklahoma State Department of Health, ATVs are off-road, three- to four-wheeled vehicles with low-pressure tires. Most ATVs accommodate a single rider, though some can carry one or more passengers. Different types of ATVs may be called four-wheelers, side-by-sides, recreational off-road vehicles (ROVs), or utility terrain vehicles (UTVs).

Many people ride ATVs for fun. However, ATVs can be used for work purposes, including hauling, towing, lawn care, and agriculture.

What Are Common Causes of Tulsa ATV Accidents?

ATV wrecks often occur due to driver negligence or inexperience. Collisions can also happen due to dangerous terrain or improper ATV use. Common ATV accident causes include:

  • Driving too fast on unfamiliar terrain
  • Trying to navigate terrain that is too steep or rough
  • Performing dangerous stunts or maneuvers
  • Driving recklessly
  • Carrying more passengers than the vehicle is designed to hold
  • Not wearing helmets or safety equipment
  • Driving on paved roads or areas restricted to ATVs
  • Driving drunk or under the influence

ATV accidents can also happen because of a lack of adult supervision. The American Academy of Pediatrics states that, on average, four children visit an emergency room every hour in the United States because of an ATV injury. In addition, more children die in ATV accidents annually than in bicycle collisions. The academy does not recommend that anyone under 16 operate an ATV.

What Types of Injuries Occur in an ATV Accident?

ATVs can be difficult to control and easy to roll over. When accidents happen, severe and catastrophic injuries can result, including:

Does Oklahoma Have ATV Laws?

Oklahoma has ATV laws that state the following.

Drivers Cannot Operate ATVs on Streets and Highways

ATV drivers cannot operate vehicles on Oklahoma’s streets or highways except on unpaved roads on Forest Service or U.S. Department of Agriculture land.

ATV drivers can cross highways to travel from one area of a trail to another. They must cross at a 90-degree angle, come to a complete stop, and yield the right of way to oncoming traffic. This exception does not apply to divided highways or highways with a speed limit of 35 mph or higher. ATV operators may also travel on a highway to cross a railroad track. However, they can only go 300 feet. These exceptions only apply if they have a valid driver’s license and it is during daylight hours.

In some municipalities, ATVs may be allowed on the street if the local government has an ordinance permitting their use. Licensed drivers may also be allowed to operate ATVs in unincorporated areas of a county as long as the road isn’t a part of the Oklahoma state highway system or the National System of Interstate and Defense Highways.

Drivers Must Obey Passenger Restrictions

Under Oklahoma law, all-terrain vehicle operators may not carry more passengers than the vehicle is designed to hold. In addition, any person under 18 must wear a helmet when operating an ATV or riding as a passenger.

Parents and Guardians Are Responsible When Children Violate ATV Laws

ATV drivers who violate the law can face fines. Any ATV owner, parent, legal guardian, or person with actual responsibility for someone under 18 can be liable for penalties resulting from the minor violating Oklahoma’s ATV laws.

Are ATV Riders Required to Have a License or Carry Insurance?

ATV riders must have a valid driver’s license to cross state highways or roadways. They may also need a license to travel on municipal streets if the municipality has laws allowing ATVs on its roads. ATV riders do not have to have a driver’s license to drive on private property, though.

Oklahoma state law does not require ATV owners to carry insurance. However, local ordinances may require insurance coverage if ATVs are allowed on city streets. In addition, many state, national, and local parks and trails require that riders have insurance before operating ATVs on the property.

According to the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID), standard auto insurance policies usually do not cover ATVs. However, some homeowner’s insurance policies might provide partial liability coverage for ATV accidents. If you own or operate an ATV, looking into a separate policy may be a good idea.

What Happens If I Get Hit by an ATV Driver?

If you get hit by an ATV driver, you can demand they compensate you for your injuries and related losses. You may be able to pursue compensation with a claim against the driver’s insurance if they have liability coverage for the ATV. If an insurance claim is not an option or insurance will not compensate you fairly, you can seek justice with a personal injury lawsuit.

While every personal injury claim is different, in general, recoverable losses may include:

  • Medical expenses
  • Lost wages
  • Reduced earning capacity
  • Physical pain and suffering
  • Mental anguish
  • Emotional distress
  • Reduced quality of life
  • Wrongful death of a loved one

Can I File an Injury Lawsuit Against the ATV Driver If I Was a Hurt as a Passenger?

If you were injured as an ATV passenger, you can likely file a lawsuit against the vehicle’s driver. However, these claims can be complicated, so it’s best to discuss your situation with an experienced ATV accident attorney as soon as possible.

Contact a Tulsa ATV Accident Lawyer

Edwards & Patterson Law cares about our clients. We know that getting money for your ATV accident is important to you, so it is important to us. Our Tulsa ATV accident lawyers can work to build your case and fight for the maximum compensation possible. We’ve secured millions in compensation for our deserving clients. Find out why they trust our knowledge and experience to win for them.

Contact us online or call now for a free consultation and learn more about your legal options and the deadlines that may apply to your claim. We take cases on contingency, so working with us will cost you nothing upfront or out of pocket.

Visit Our Tulsa ATV Accident Law Offices