Bossier City ATV Accident Attorney
Pursuing Justice for Those Harmed by Reckless Quad Bike Drivers
All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) have surged in popularity across Bossier City, attracting both enthusiasts and thrill-seekers to the area's abundant off-road trails and open spaces.
Unfortunately, these vehicles often bring significant risks when mishandled. ATV riders operating on public streets can face collision rates nearly ten times higher than those riding off-road. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, ATVs and other off-highway vehicles cause over 800 deaths and approximately 100,000 injuries yearly across the country.
At Joseph A. Gregorio, A Professional Law Firm, we understand the challenges faced by ATV accident victims in Bossier City. Our legal team has years of experience advocating for those injured by the careless actions of others. Our approach is grounded in compassion, extensive knowledge of Louisiana laws, and a commitment to justice for those whose lives have been disrupted by accidents.
Call (318) 719-7515 or message us online to schedule a free consultation and take the first step toward justice.
How We Help the Injured Recover & Pursue Justice After an ATV Accident
If you or a loved one has been injured in an ATV accident, navigating the path to recovery and justice can feel daunting. Partnering with an experienced legal advocate can transform this process. Here’s how we assist injured individuals in pursuing their claims:
- Investigating the Cause of the Accident - Our first step is to dig deep into the details of your ATV accident. Whether it was caused by a reckless driver, defective vehicle, or hazardous property conditions, we analyze all factors to pinpoint liability.
- Negotiating with Insurance Companies - ATV accidents often involve insurance policies that may not cover damages right away. We negotiate to maximize your compensation, challenging lowball settlements that don’t fully address your injuries and losses.
- Filing Claims Against the Responsible Parties - Liability in ATV accidents can extend beyond the rider. If a minor caused the accident, we pursue claims against the responsible parent or guardian. Similarly, manufacturers of defective ATVs or negligent property owners who failed to maintain safe conditions can also be held accountable.
- Determining Full Damages - Many victims underestimate the scope of damages they’re entitled to in ATV crash claims. Beyond medical bills, we ensure your claim includes lost wages, future medical care, pain and suffering, and the emotional toll of the accident.
Types of Damages You Can Win from an ATV Crash Claim
When pursuing a claim for an ATV accident, a comprehensive understanding of potential damages is crucial. These can be broken down into various categories:
- Medical Expenses. Victims of ATV accidents often face extensive medical costs, including emergency care, surgeries, physical therapy, and ongoing treatment for long-term injuries. These expenses are a central component of most claims.
- Lost Wages & Future Earnings. Severe injuries may prevent you from working temporarily or even permanently. Compensation accounts for current lost income as well as diminished earning potential if injuries result in long-term disability.
- Pain & Suffering. ATV accidents often cause significant physical and psychological pain. Non-economic damages aim to address emotional distress, reduced quality of life, and other intangible losses.
- Property Damage. If your vehicle or personal property was damaged during the accident, you may be entitled to reimbursement for repair or replacement costs. This includes compensation for damaged cars or other personal items.
- Wrongful Death Damages. For families who have lost a loved one due to an ATV-related accident, damages may include funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and financial support for dependents.
Who Is Liable in an ATV Accident?
Determining liability in an ATV accident is often complex, as several parties might be responsible:
- The ATV Driver. If the accident was caused by reckless behavior, impaired driving, or negligence, the ATV operator can be held liable.
- The Manufacturer. Faulty brakes, defective parts, or poor design can lead to lawsuits against an ATV manufacturer for dangerous defects.
- Property Owners. A poorly maintained trail or unsafe property conditions that contribute to an accident place responsibility on the property owner.
- Supervising Adults. When minors cause ATV accidents, the adult responsible for supervising the child may be liable, particularly if the child was operating the ATV improperly.
How Do You Prove the ATV Driver Was at Fault?
To establish fault in an ATV accident, gathering specific evidence is crucial. Photos of the accident scene, including the position of the vehicles, skid marks, and property damage, can help piece together what happened. Eyewitness accounts are invaluable, as bystanders often notice details that may not be immediately obvious to those involved. Security camera footage, if available from nearby businesses or homes, can provide an unbiased view of the events.
A thorough investigation might also involve analyzing the ATV driver’s behavior before the accident. Were they driving recklessly, speeding, or showing signs of distraction, such as using a phone? Evidence of impairment, like alcohol or drug use, can also play a critical role in proving negligence.
Accident reconstruction experts may be called in to map out how the mishap unfolded based on the evidence, offering a clearer picture of who was at fault. Additionally, medical records are vital in connecting your injuries to the accident.
Recovering from an ATV accident? Call (318) 719-7515 or reach out online to discuss how we can help you compensation for your injuries.
How Comparative Fault Affects Your ATV Accident Case
Louisiana adheres to a "comparative negligence" rule, which means that liability for an accident is divided between all parties involved based on their percentage of fault. In simple terms, the amount of compensation you can recover will be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you. For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault for an ATV accident and your total damages amount to $100,000, your compensation would be reduced by 20%, leaving you with $80,000.
This legal framework ensures that responsibility is shared fairly but can also complicate the claims process. Insurance companies and opposing parties may try to assign you a higher portion of fault to reduce the amount they have to pay. That’s why it’s critical to work with an experienced attorney who can help you navigate these complexities and protect your rights to fair compensation.
What Are the Laws Around Off-Road Use in Bossier City?
Under Louisiana law, ATVs are generally prohibited from operating on public roads and highways. However, there are specific exceptions:
- Farm-Related Activities. ATVs may travel on the shoulders of public roads (excluding interstate highways) for farm-related purposes within a five-mile radius of a farmer's property. The operator must hold a valid Class “E” driver’s license and carry proof of motor vehicle registration or a sworn affidavit confirming engagement in farming activities.
- Time Restrictions. ATV use on public road shoulders is limited to daylight hours, specifically starting 30 minutes after sunrise and ending 30 minutes before sunset.
- Incidental Crossings. ATVs are allowed to cross public roads or highways incidentally, provided it is done safely and in compliance with traffic laws.
Operators must provide proof of valid liability insurance for the ATV upon request. This requirement ensures that any damages or injuries caused by the ATV are covered.
Violations of these laws, such as operating an ATV on public roads without a valid reason or during prohibited hours, can serve as strong evidence of negligence in an accident claim. If an ATV was being used illegally at the time of an accident, it significantly strengthens the case for the injured party.
Why Trust Joseph A. Gregorio, A Professional Law Firm to Handle Your ATV Accident Case?
At Joseph A. Gregorio, A Professional Law Firm, we pride ourselves on providing compassionate, results-driven representation to Bossier City residents.
- Free initial consultations
- Virtual consultations available for your convenience
- Contingency fee basis – you owe no legal feesunless we win your case
- Serving the community since 1994
- Over 2,000 cases successfully handled
- Flexible scheduling, including weekend and evening appointments
- Availability for home and hospital visits
If you’ve been injured in an ATV accident in Bossier City, contact us online or call (318) 719-7515 to find out how we can help you move forward
