Home Library ROV's are the next great thing

ROV's Are the Next Great Thing, but Their Safety Record Is Very Poor

ROV’s or Recreational Off-road vehicles, like their predecessors the ATV's, were introduced into the recreational market in 2003. Since that time, they have been linked to serious injury and significant litigation. Here are 5 common accidents and how to prevent your involvement in an accident.

  1. Know that roll-over accidents are the main cause of injury and death.

    Since 2003, 181 accidents reports involving injury or death have been documented by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. Many of those accidents involved multiple parties riding in the same ROV. There were 116 deaths and 152 injuries in 6 ½ years. It is worth noting that 69% of the crashes were caused by roll-over without a triggering mechanism such as over-steering. Therefore avoid putting the vehicle in a roll-over situation and do not assume that you are protected by a roll bar or other safety equipment.
  2. Keep a good look out for other objects, as this is the second cause of collision.

    Almost all of the remaining accidents, injuries or deaths were caused by striking another object or vehicle. Unlike a street vehicle, your road path is not clear and is not designed for safety. Therefore, drive defensively.
  3. Most roll-over accidents have a component of ejection. Despite the safety measures in these vehicles, ejection or partial ejection remains the cause of most deaths. Therefore make sure all your passengers are belted in tightly and avoid sudden moves to either side that would increase the likelihood of seat belt failure. Never let a rider stand or partially sit in your ROV when you operate it.
  4. Children are very susceptible to ejection and injury. Require your children to be fully belted, driver slower and make them wear a helmet and other protection. Never have a small child out for a ride on rough terrain.
  5. Remember that off-road vehicles are not covered by your auto insurance. If you are going to ride and have passengers on these vehicles, insure your ROV. If you don’t you could find yourself sued for all your worth in a wrongful death case, or case of serious injury.

Like motorcycles, ATV’s and other recreational vehicles, can be loads of safe fun. They can also be very dangerous. Take these precautions and you will enjoy your off-road experience much more, but if you do get hurt in an accident, contact our OC personal injury attorneys.

by James E. Ballidis

James Ballidis is the managing attorney for Allen Flatt Ballidis & Leslie and has been practicing personal injury law for over 35 years.

If you need assistance or want to speak to an attorney about your accident or injury, call (888) 752-7474 or contact us.

Call (888) 752-7474, or send over our free case
review form, even if you're not sure. We're here to help.

Free Case Review

You were wonderful throughout my case. Thank you so much for taking the time to explain the process so that I could feel comfortable. When I was hurt, I really did not know where to turn and Suzanne was comforting and knowledgable. Thanks again for all you did.

- H.P.

We’re here to help.

We're sorry about what happened to you. It shouldn't have, and that's why we do what we do - go after justice for people who were injured by someone else. You're not alone. Reach out, engage with us, and contribute your expertise to the process. This is a relationship - we can learn just as much from you as you can from us!

After all, it's your needs we're fulfilling. If you want a great Orange County personal injury attorney who you can trust, contact Allen Flatt Ballidis & Leslie.

Se Habla Español مکالمه به زبان فارسی

By submitting this form, you agree to be contacted via the info given through email, phone call, or text message.

Get In Touch

Allen Flatt Ballidis & Leslie
4400 MacArthur Blvd Ste 370
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Toll Free: (888) 752-7474
Local: (949) 752-7474
Email: contactus@allenflatt.com

Disclaimer: The information on this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should formally consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. We invite you to contact us and welcome your calls, letters and electronic mail. Please be advised, however, contacting us, submitting a case to us, and/or discussing your case with us does NOT create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until such time as an attorney-client relationship has been established.

©2024 Allen Flatt Ballidis & Leslie. All Rights Reserved. Website Design, SEO and Legal Internet Marketing by: SLS ConsultingSLS Consulting

Free Case Review

Our legal team is ready to help you. Complete the following form and a member of our staff will reach out to you within 24 hours to discuss your case. All submissions are confidentially reviewed by Allen Flatt Ballidis & Leslie.

Se Habla Español مکالمه به زبان فارسی

By submitting this form, you agree to be contacted via the info given through email, phone call, or text message.