Our Kansas City ATV accident lawyers understand that golf carts and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are great for getting to the golf course or hiking trails. However, they can be dangerous if they are not used responsibly. Unfortunately, you may be at risk of suffering a serious injury if the golf cart or ATV owner, driver, or manufacturer was negligent.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a golf cart or ATV accident, you need the help of a qualified Kansas City ATV accident lawyer to file an accident claim. At Peterson & Associates, P.C., we have years of experience representing ATV and golf cart accident victims. We know what it takes to get the best results for our clients, and we'll work closely with you every step of the way.
Common Causes of Kansas City ATV and Golf Cart Accidents
Some of the most common causes of ATV and golf cart accidents include:
Lack of Experience
Inexperience can cause accidents. New drivers need to learn the basics of safe riding, such as avoiding obstacles, staying in control of the vehicle, and stopping safely.
Operating an ATV or Golf Cart Under the Influence of Drugs or Alcohol
A few drinks on the golf course or before ATV riding can cause dangerous accidents. Impaired driving can lead to loss of control, reduced reaction time, and poor judgment, all of which increase the risk of accidents and injuries.
Improper Maintenance or Faulty Equipment
Improper maintenance can lead to many different types of accidents. Common types of improper maintenance that may cause accidents include the following:
- Loose fasteners that cause the vehicle to roll over
- Worn belts that break and cause the drive shaft or axle to come off its mounting point
- Damaged or unsecured drive shafts that can cause the vehicle to veer off course
- Worn or damaged tires that can lead to loss of control
Many components in an ATV are rubber or plastic and will wear out over time. If these parts are not replaced, they may break.
An accident caused in any of these ways can result in a collision with other vehicles or objects, such as trees, shrubs, or fences.
ATV and Golf Cart Accident Liability
Several parties can be held liable for an ATV or golf cart accident, including:
- The driver
- The owner of the vehicle
- The manufacturer of the vehicle
An attorney can help you navigate the complicated legal system and fight for the damages you are entitled to receive. Three things must be proven to claim damages for a personal injury after an ATV or golf cart accident. Specifically, you must prove the following:
- You were injured by another party
- The other party was negligent
- The other party's negligence caused your injuries
An experienced Kansas City personal injury lawyer can investigate the accident and protect your right to a fair recovery.
ATV and Golf Cart Accident Injuries
ATV and golf cart accidents can result in a variety of serious injuries, including:
Traumatic Brain Injury
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a general term for any brain injury resulting from physical trauma. You may suffer a TBI if you hit your head during a golf cart or ATV accident or if the force of the accident causes your brain to crash against your skull. Brain injuries can result in many symptoms that interfere with your daily activities.
Spinal Cord Injury
Spinal cord injuries are among the most severe and life-changing injuries in ATV and golf cart accidents. The spinal cord controls many essential functions, including mobility and feeling. A spinal cord injury can cause paralysis or death.
Broken Bones
A broken bone is one of the most common injuries sustained in ATV and golf cart accidents. Some of the symptoms of broken bones include tenderness at the site of the injury, swelling, bruising, and pain. Broken bones may require surgery and can cause long-term health complications.
Neck and Back Injuries
Neck and back injuries are common in golf cart and ATV accidents and can be serious. You could suffer an injury to your muscles, ligaments, bones, or nerves. You must seek medical attention immediately if you suffer a neck or back injury in an ATV or golf cart accident.
Lacerations
A laceration is a deep cut that can range in severity from a small scratch to a gaping hole in a person's body. Large or deep lacerations can result in dangerous infections if they are not treated promptly.
Additionally, In some cases, a golf cart or ATV accident can cause a person's death.
Compensation for Kansas City ATV and Golf Cart Accident Injuries
Some of the damages available to ATV and golf cart accident victims in Kansas and Missouri include:
- Lost income
- Loss of consortium
- Pain and suffering
- Medical expenses
- Emotional distress
- Loss of quality of life
Your compensation will be based on your unique injuries.
Why Choose Peterson & Associates, P.C. After a Kansas City Golf Cart or ATV Accident?
You need an attorney you can trust if you've been injured in an ATV or golf cart accident. The experienced injury lawyers at Peterson & Associates, P.C. offer you the following benefits:
- We work on a contingency fee basis, which means we don't get paid until you do
- We value a positive attorney-client relationship
- We will ensure you get maximum compensation
We'll work closely with you every step of the way to make sure you understand your legal options and get the best possible outcome for your case
If you've been injured in an ATV or golf cart accident, it's vital to seek legal representation as soon as possible. An experienced Kansas City ATV and golf cart accident lawyer can help you file a claim and get the compensation you deserve.
We understand this is a difficult time, and we'll work closely with you to make the process as easy as possible. We'll handle all the paperwork and negotiations, so you can focus on recovering from your injuries.
Contact us to connect with our Kansas City golf cart and ATV accident lawyers today to learn more.