ATV vs Dirt Bike Accidents: Which is Safer?
ATVs and dirt bikes have different purposes and levels of safety. Dirt bikes are great for thrill seekers and those looking to explore single-track trails in remote locations. ATVs are great for transporting people and items like carrying an elk out or for leisurely rides around farms, trails and campsites. Overall, ATVs are easier to learn and dirt bikes are easier to haul. Each comes with their own level of risk; both ATV and dirt bike accidents can be very serious. Many people are injured in ATV and dirt bike wrecks every year.
Dirt bike attorneys
If you or a loved one was injured in an ATV or dirt bike wreck, contact an experienced dirt bike lawyer as soon as possible. A dirt bike accident lawyer can discuss your legal rights and may be able to help you recover damages for your injuries.
ATVs vs dirt bike accidents: which is safer?
You are much more likely to crash a dirt bike on your first time out then an ATV. Overall, ATV crashes don’t happen as often as dirt bike accidents, but ATV crashes tend to be serious when they do happen. Many people are surprised to hear that ATV accidents are more deadly than dirt bike accidents.
According to dirtbikeplanet.com, there are three main reasons that ATV crashes are so deadly:
- ATVs are 1,000 pounds and can roll on top of the rider in an ATV wreck.
- The seemingly stable four-wheel base on an ATV gives riders a false sense of security which means they are more likely to take dangerous risks.
- It is relatively easy to learn to ride an ATV vs a dirt bike which makes inexperienced riders feel like they know what they are doing.
Common causes of fatal ATV accidents
- Turning corners too quickly
- Riding over uneven terrain
- Lower helmet usage among ATV riders vs dirt bike riders
- High center of gravity causes ATV to roll over and flip on top of rider
- Riders under the age of 16 often using adult-sized ATVs that are too big and powerful for their size and experience
Click here to read about dirt bike and ATV injury statistics.
Top ATV and dirt bike safety tips
These ATV and dirt bike safety tips from dirtbikechool.org will help to keep you safe:
- Always wear safety gear including a DOT-compliant helmet, goggles, long sleeves and pants, over-the-ankle boots, and gloves.
- Avoid riding on paved roads unless you are riding a dual-purpose model.
- Riders under the age of 16 should only ride bikes and ATVs with appropriate power and be supervised at all times. Since 2000, the American Academy of Pediatrics has recommended that ATV use be restricted to youth aged 16 years and older.
- Never drink or do drugs and then ride a dirt bike or ATV.
- Always ride with a buddy and choose designated dirt bike trails.
- Ride at a safe speed and slow down when turning.
- Take an in-person riding course.
If you have lost a loved one or been injured through no fault of your own, you have enough on your plate. Let an experienced accident attorney fight for the justice and fair compensation that you deserve. It is not uncommon to receive a settlement from the insurance company that is five to ten times larger with the help of a lawyer. Call the caring, tireless and experienced personal injury attorneys at Tario & Associates, P.S. in Bellingham, WA today for a FREE consultation! We have been representing residents of Whatcom County, Skagit County and surrounding areas since 1979. You will pay nothing up front and no attorney fees at all unless we recover damages for you!
