ATV accidents can lead to life-altering injuries and costly medical care. If you’ve been hurt while riding in or around Reno, Maier Gutierrez & Associates is here to help you understand your legal rights. Our experienced ATV accident lawyer will investigate the cause—whether it was a negligent operator, unsafe terrain, or a defective vehicle—and build a strong claim on your behalf. We’re committed to securing the compensation you need to recover and move forward. Call 775-406-8981 today for a free consultation with an ATV accident lawyer who will fight for justice.
What to Know About ATV Accident Claims Involving Children
All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are popular in Reno and throughout northern Nevada. Families often use them for recreation, especially in rural areas, desert trails, and off-road parks. But while ATVs can be fun, they are also powerful machines that can cause serious injuries. When children are involved in ATV accidents, the consequences can be life-changing.
Accidents involving minors are not only traumatic but also legally complex. Parents and guardians often have many questions about how to handle these situations, especially when another party’s negligence may be involved. Knowing what to expect after an ATV crash is critical to protecting your child’s health, legal rights, and future.
Children Face Greater Risks in ATV Accidents
ATVs can weigh several hundred pounds and travel at high speeds. Many models are not designed for children to operate. Yet, it’s not uncommon to see children riding adult-sized ATVs or using these vehicles without helmets or proper supervision.
When accidents happen, young riders are more likely to suffer serious injuries such as:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord damage
- Broken bones
- Internal bleeding
- Facial injuries
These injuries can result in long recovery periods, ongoing medical care, and lasting physical or emotional effects. That’s why it’s so important to handle these cases carefully.
ATV Laws and Safety Guidelines in Nevada
Nevada does not require a license to operate an ATV, but the law does restrict who can ride and where. For example:
- Riders under 18 are required to wear helmets when operating on public land.
- Children under 16 are encouraged to complete an approved safety course.
- ATVs must be registered if used on public lands.
- Local rules may vary, especially on private property or in parks.
While not every violation of these rules leads to a crash, ignoring safety guidelines can increase the chances of an accident and affect liability in a legal case.
Common Causes of ATV Accidents Involving Children
Not every accident is the fault of the child or their parents. In many cases, someone else’s negligence plays a role. Some of the more common causes include:
- Poor ATV maintenance or mechanical defects
- Unsafe trail conditions or lack of signage
- Negligent supervision by adults or property owners
- Being hit by another ATV driver
- Defective helmets or safety gear
If another party’s actions contributed to the crash, they may be held legally responsible for the child’s injuries.
Determining Who May Be Liable
ATV accidents involving children can involve several potentially liable parties. Depending on the situation, liability might fall on:
- The owner of the ATV if they allowed an inexperienced or underage rider to use it
- A manufacturer if the ATV or safety equipment was defective
- A property owner who failed to maintain safe riding conditions
- Another driver who caused a collision
- An adult who was responsible for supervising the child at the time of the crash
Each case is different. A personal injury lawyer will investigate the details to identify who may be held accountable and what kind of compensation may be available.
Filing a Claim on Behalf of a Child
Since minors cannot file legal claims on their own, a parent or legal guardian must do it for them. This process involves special rules because courts want to protect the interests of the child.
If a settlement is reached or awarded, the money is usually placed in a trust or protected account until the child reaches adulthood. Courts often need to approve the settlement to ensure it is fair.
This process may take time, but it’s meant to safeguard the child’s long-term well-being.
Damages That May Be Recovered
Families may be able to recover financial compensation for a range of damages, including:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Costs of physical therapy or long-term care
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Disfigurement or permanent disability
- Parental loss of income if they had to care for the injured child
In some cases, punitive damages may be available if the responsible party acted with extreme negligence.
What to Do After an ATV Accident Involving a Child
If your child is injured in an ATV crash, here are steps you should take right away:
- Get medical care immediately. Even if the injury doesn’t appear serious, some conditions may not show up right away.
- Document everything. Take photos of the ATV, the scene of the crash, visible injuries, and any safety gear.
- Get witness information. Anyone who saw the crash may be able to provide helpful statements later.
- Report the accident. If it happened on public land, report it to the appropriate agency or law enforcement.
- Avoid posting on social media. Comments or images about the accident could be used against you in a claim.
- Contact a personal injury attorney. An experienced lawyer in Reno can review your situation and advise you on your options.
Why Legal Help Matters in These Cases
ATV accident claims involving minors are not handled like standard injury cases. Insurance companies may try to deny responsibility or offer low settlements that don’t cover the full impact of the injury. In addition, proving negligence in these situations can be more complicated.
A lawyer familiar with personal injury laws in Nevada can:
- Handle communication with insurers and opposing attorneys
- Collect evidence and work with experts to support your claim
- Navigate the court approval process for minor settlements
- Make sure all legal deadlines are met
- Fight for the maximum compensation your child deserves
Many firms offer free consultations and work on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay unless the case is successful.
No parent wants to imagine their child being seriously injured in an ATV crash. But if it happens, knowing your rights can make a difference in their recovery and future.
If your family is dealing with an accident like this in Reno, take steps to protect your child’s physical and legal health. With the right legal guidance, you can pursue accountability and help your child receive the care and support they need to move forward.
Get Legal Help from a Trusted ATV Accident Attorney
ATV accidents can result in catastrophic injuries, often caused by defective equipment or negligent operation. If you’ve been hurt in an ATV crash near Reno, Maier Gutierrez & Associates can help. A knowledgeable ATV accident attorney will examine the facts of your case and fight for the compensation you need to recover. We’ll handle every aspect of your claim while you focus on healing. Let us put our experience to work for you. Call 775-406-8981 today to schedule a free consultation with an ATV accident attorney who will prioritize your case.