Minnesota ATV Accident Attorneys
June 2012
As summer descends upon Minnesota, people around the state are gearing up for ATV season. Although the number of annual fatalities has been dropping, people are still being killed in ATV accidents. On May 25, for example, one man was killed and two others were injured in an ATV accident. The incident occurred between Hammond and Millville. The driver, Philip Michael Riley, became trapped when his ATV went into the Zumbro River. He had two passengers on the ATV, and he was the fifth official ATV-related fatality of the year. There were 22 ATV-related fatalities in 2010 and 15 in 2011. At Schwebel, Goetz & Sieben, we’d like to see that number drop even lower.
ATV Safety Tips
A considerable number of deaths and injuries that involve ATVs happen because people fail to obey basic safety procedures. In the incident outlined above, there were three passengers on the ATV. Most ATVs are only designed for one person, so make sure not to allow passengers on with you. Always wear protective gear, including a helmet. Keep your ATV off of paved roads. Never operate an ATV while you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and never allow children to drive adult-sized ATVs. Finally, take an ATV safety course. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has a list of options on its website.
ATV Accidents: Know Your Rights
Despite people’s best efforts, ATV accidents still sometimes occur. If you or a loved one has been injured in an ATV accident in Minnesota, you need to contact the competent and experienced attorneys at Schwebel, Goetz & Sieben. We have handled numerous cases like these in the past, and we are available to assist you with yours.
All too often, people are unaware of their rights and fail to seek compensation for their injuries. In addition to being compensated for your pain and suffering, you can hold ATV manufacturers accountable. In turn, you may be able to prevent future accidents. Don’t wait another minute. If you have been involved in an ATV accident and live in Minnesota, contact Schwebel, Goetz & Sieben today at (612) 377-7777 or 1-800-752-4265 (toll free) for a free case evaluation.