UTV Accident Liability Claims
Las Vegas, Nevada
Injured after UTV crash
If you got injured in a UTV accident in Las Vegas or Nevada, call us at 702-432-1000 to discuss your case.
We don't charge for consultations.
What is UTV?
A UTV (or Utility Task Vehicle) is a versatile off-road vehicle for various outdoor activities and tasks. UTVs are similar to ATVs (All-Terrain Vehicles) but have a different design. Unlike ATVs, which are single-rider vehicles, UTV vehicles are typically designed to carry multiple passengers and often have a side-by-side seating arrangement.
People use UTVs for recreational purposes such as off-road trail riding, dune bashing, and other outdoor experiences.
In Las Vegas, visitors are offered many UTV adventure tours to explore off-road riding areas just 30 minutes from the Strip.
Is it safe to ride a UTV vehicle?
UTV safety is a relative thing.
Generally, the safety of a UTV (Utility Task Vehicle) depends on the operator's experience and responsible behavior, the terrain, adherence to safety guidelines, and the vehicle's condition.
However, the UTV accident statistics are overwhelming.
On Oct. 4, 2023, a 17-year-old passenger died in the UTV crash in SCIOTO COUNTY, Ohio.
On Oct 12, 2023, 2 teenage girls were killed in an accident involving a rollover crash of UTV in North Phoenix, Arizona.
On Oct. 16, 2023, 1 person was killed and 1 seriously injured in a UTV accident in Westfield, Maine.
According to the Consumer Federation of America, there were 46 fatalities involving UTV vehicles between January 1 and June 2023.
Common UTV accident types
Rollovers, collisions with objects, and injections are the most common types of UTV accidents, resulting in severe injuries and sometimes death.
Why do UTV accidents happen?
UTVs are light vehicles and are not made to survive an impact like a car. UTVs don't have safety features (such as airbags) as modern vehicles. Safety belts exist, but many people don't use them at all. Wearing helmets while riding a UTV is not required.
Other reasons for UTV (Utility Task Vehicles) accidents include:
Inexperienced Operators: Some UTV operators may lack experience or proper training, leading to accidents due to inadequate handling or unfamiliarity with the vehicle's capabilities.
High Speeds: UTV vehicles are designed for off-road use, and some people may drive them at speeds that are unsafe for the terrain, leading to rollovers or collisions.
Rough Terrain: Off-road environments can be unpredictable, with uneven surfaces, rocks, mud, and other obstacles. Driving UTVs in such conditions can result in accidents if not approached with caution.
Overloading: UTV vehicles have weight limits, and overloading them with passengers or cargo can affect their stability and handling, leading to accidents.
Mechanical Failures: Like any vehicle, UTVs can experience mechanical failures such as brake issues, tire blowouts, or steering problems, which can cause accidents.
Alcohol or Drug Use: Operating a UTV under the influence of drugs or alcohol impairs the driver's judgment and reaction time and increases the likelihood of accidents.
What to do if you get in the UTV accident in Las Vegas or Nevada
• First and foremost, check yourself, your passengers, and others involved in the accident for injuries. If anyone is injured, seek medical help immediately by calling emergency services. Even if injuries are not immediately apparent, it's advisable to undergo a medical evaluation after an accident. Injuries from UTV accidents, such as whiplash or internal injuries, may not show symptoms immediately.
• Next, if it's safe, take photographs of the accident scene, including the UTV involved, damages, and any relevant road signs or landmarks. This documentation can be valuable for insurance claims and legal purposes.
• Finally, contact an attorney. An attorney experienced in personal injury or UTV accidents can provide legal advice and help protect your rights. We invite you to call us.
Common injuries after the UTV accidents?
UTV (Utility Task Vehicle) accidents can result in many injuries. It may include cuts, scrapes and abrasions, fractures and broken bones, head and spine injuries, whiplash, internal injuries, and emotional trauma.
It's important to note that wearing appropriate safety gear, including helmets, seat belts, and protective clothing, can reduce the risk of injuries in a UTV accident.
When children are involved in the UTV accident
• You must be at least 16 years old to drive a UTV.
• If the child under 16 was operating the UTV with the consent and supervision of a parent or guardian, the adult is liable in the event of an accident. See NRS 483.680 for details.
• Other parties that could be responsible for a crash involve the UTV manufacturer or a maintenance crew.
UTV recalls
Many recalls are issued for UTVs, primarily because of fire hazards, throttle issues, and steering-related issues.
In 2019, a class action lawsuit alleged that Polaris UTVs did not meet safety requirements and had a tendency to roll over, causing injuries and deaths.
What are the challenges in UTV accident lawsuits?
UTV (Utility Task Vehicle) accident lawsuits can be complex. Here are some challenges commonly encountered in UTV accident lawsuits:
Off-Road Environment: UTV accidents often occur in off-road environments, where factors like rough terrain, obstacles, and unpredictable conditions can complicate the determination of liability and causation.
Lack of Witnesses: Off-road accidents often occur in remote or sparsely populated areas with few or no witnesses.
Limited Regulation: Off-road vehicles, including UTVs, are subject to different regulations and safety standards than on-road vehicles.
We can help
Call us at 702-432-1000 to discuss your UTV accident case.
Your consultation will be informative and free.
We work on a contingency basis. If we cannot settle your case or win at trial, we don't get paid, and you don't owe us anything.
We serve clients in Las Vegas and Nevada.
Last updated on February 4, 2024.
