Maryland Accident Law Blog
A 29-year-old Maryland man was tragically killed last week when he was ejected suddenly from the all-terrain vehicle he was riding and hit a concrete barrier
It happened last Wednesday evening, on West Road in Salisbury. According to police, the man was operating a 2004 Suzuki Quad runner four-wheel drive quad on the roadway at a high rate of speed when he suddenly lost control. The ATV apparently steered off of the road, traveling across uneven pavement, which caused both the man and the ATV to hit a concrete barrier.
Authorities say the man, who was not wearing a helmet or any other safety equipment, died at a local hospital of his injuries. Alcohol was not involved in the accident.
This tragic case is an example of how dangerous these all terrain vehicles can be. According to at least one report, 700 people are killed every year from ATV related accidents, and another 136,000 are sent to the emergency room.
Additionally, ATVs post an even greater threat to children. In 2010 at least 55 kids younger than 16 were killed, and more than 28,000 were seriously injured in ATV accidents. The American Academy of Pediatrics has warned that ATVs are dangerous for children.
Due to the dangers posed, industry players are advising ATV riders to follow safety measures such as:
- wear a helmet
- never ride with a passenger
- never ride on a public road
- one size ATV does not fit all
The facts reported in relation with this case are limited, therefore it remains unclear whether there are any legal issues involved, or rather it was just a tragic accident that was a result of travelling too quickly over rugged terrain.
Sometimes, in situations such as this, there is more at play. For example, a minor rides an ATV without parental permission, or without proper safety equipment. Alternatively, a person rides an ATV over unsafe terrain. In either of these cases, the landowner and ATV owner may be liable for the resulting death or injuries caused.
If you or a loved one has been hurt or killed as a result of an ATV accident, whether you are a Maryland resident or someone from outside the state, our wrongful death lawyers and personal injury lawyers may be able to help. Even if the relevant police reports state that you or your loved one caused the accident, there may be evidence that indicates otherwise. If so, you may be entitled to pursue a legal claim for your personal injury or wrongful death.
Lebowitz & Mzhen Personal Injury Lawyers is a well established full service personal injury law firm. As experienced attorneys, we have represented many families who have suffered from wrongful deaths caused by ATV accidents, car accidents, and other traumatic events. If you believe that your loved one died because of the wrongful or negligent actions of another, please contact us through our website, or by calling 1-800-654-1949 today in order to schedule your confidential and free initial consultation.
More Blog Posts:
Cruise Industry Adopts New Safety Standards After 2012 Cruise Ship Crash, Maryland Accident Law Blog, published January 28, 2013
Lawsuit Alleges Prison Nurse Denied Emergency Medical Care to Inmate, Maryland Accident Law Blog, published August 7, 2013