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Oklahoma Dirt Bike & ATV Accident & Injury

Riding off-road vehicles such as dirt bikes and all-terrain vehicles is a tremendously popular activity. But these recreational vehicles can be dangerous. Over 300 ATV riders are killed each year in the United States, and many of them are under the age of 16. That’s why it’s critical to remember that dirt bikes and ATVs are not toys, and you can be seriously injured when operating them.

What Are Oklahoma’s Rules for ATVs?

All-terrain vehicles are defined by Oklahoma as motorized vehicles manufactured for off-highway use that are less than 60 inches wide, weigh less than 1,500 pounds, and travel on two or more tires. Dirt bikes are grouped under this ATV classification. People do modify dirt bikes to be "street-legal"; however, they are most common for off-road activities such as motocross.

The OK Tax Commission will assign an ATV a certificate of registration, but not a license plate. Here are Oklahoma’s rules for operating ATVs, including dirt bikes:

ATVs are not allowed on the streets or highways. However, individual municipalities may implement ordinances allowing ATV, golf-cart, or utility vehicle operation on their streets.
ATV riders or passengers under 18 years of age must wear approved crash helmets.
No person may operate an ATV in a way that endangers people or property.
Operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs is prohibited.

If someone under the age of 18 breaks any of Oklahoma’s ATV laws, the parent or legal guardian who owns the ATV by may be subject to penalties.

What Are Common ATV Injuries?

Crashes involving dirt bikes and ATVs are extremely dangerous because the operator has minimal protections, similar to a motorcycle. Common injuries include broken bones, soft tissue injuries, and lacerations. The two most devastating injuries are brain injuries or spinal cord injuries, which are often associated with permanent disability, paralysis, or death.

Who Can Be Held Responsible in an ATV Accident?

As with other types of vehicles, the operator of the dirt bike or ATV can be held responsible for injuries and property damage that he or she causes. In other situations, it might be the owner who was negligent by allowing someone to drive a faulty ATV. In addition, manufacturers of recreational vehicles can potentially be liable for product defects that lead to injuries. In the past there have been serious manufacturer defects in products sold to the public, such as dirt bikes that leaked fuel and caught fire. In 2017, Honda issued a recall on CRF450R off-road motorcycles after determining that a defective transmission gear could lead to crashes.

If negligence was involved in the accident, the victim may bring a civil claim for recovery of damages.

Many insurance providers offer "specialty vehicle" policies that are designed for ATVs, dirt bikes, and golf carts. The coverage is similar to what is available for auto insurance. This may include bodily and property damage coverage, collision coverage for damage from obstacles or animals, and comprehensive coverage if the vehicle was stolen or vandalized.

Help for Accidents Involving Off-Road Vehicles in Oklahoma

If you or a loved one suffered a severe injury while off-roading, it can have long-term ramifications. There may be costly medical bills, missed work, physical rehabilitation, and more. When these situations are caused by someone else’s carelessness or negligence, you shouldn’t have to pay for it. For a free evaluation of your situation, contact the team at Car Accident Help today at (405) 285-4357.