Suing for a UTV Accident in New Hampshire: Is It Possible?

If you were struck by another vehicle while riding your UTV, you might be wondering if legal action is possible. Also known as ATVs, UTVs are prone to various threats. While many UTV riders lose their lives after single-vehicle crashes, negligent drivers may also pose serious, life-threatening dangers. Can you hold these negligent drivers accountable? What if you lost a loved one to a fatal UTV crash? These are questions you might want to ask your Manchester personal injury lawyer.

UTV Accidents Are All Too Common in New Hampshire 

You might assume that an accident involving a UTV and a road vehicle is a relatively rare occurrence in New Hampshire. However, these crashes are actually quite common. In June of 2024, a Volkswagen ran a red light in Seabrook before striking a UTV rider. The rider was “seriously hurt” and transported to a nearby hospital.

It was later revealed that the UTV rider was a parking enforcement employee who worked for the Town of Seabrook. The impact overturned the UTV, ejecting the rider and causing critical, life-threatening injuries. This accident illustrates how serious the consequences can be when even small sedans impact UTVs.

Why Are UTV vs. Car Accidents So Dangerous? 

UTV riders are completely vulnerable to impacts from road vehicles. Unlike other motorists, these riders are exposed to the elements – with not even a layer of aluminum protecting them from other vehicles. As such, even slight impacts can cause life-altering injuries. High-speed impacts can easily become fatal.

Can I Sue a Driver for Crashing into my UTV?

 While your own car insurance might not cover you while you’re riding your UTV, you can still sue negligent drivers if they crash into you. As long as you can prove that the other driver engaged in some kind of negligence in connection with your crash, you should be able to recover compensation for your damages.

A clear example of negligence is running a red light. However, you might also sue a negligent driver if they broke the speed limit, improperly merged, drove drunk, and so on. That being said, you may need to carefully consider whether you were operating your UTV legally at the time of the crash. Speak with a lawyer to assess your unique circumstances in more detail.

Find an Experienced New Hampshire Injury Lawyer

 If you’ve been searching for an experienced New Hampshire injury lawyer, look no further than The Law Office of Manning Zimmerman & Oliveira, PLLC. We know that New Hampshire residents may face threats while operating all kinds of vehicles, from cars and trucks to UTVs and motorcycles. Regardless of your vehicle, legal action may be possible. With help from our experienced lawyer, you might be able to pursue compensation for medical expenses, missed wages, and other damages. Reach out today to learn more.

Sources: 

aol.com/utv-operator-seriously-injured-crash-134346244.html?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAMBpYWzXvA3yHVpLyeZ2uAvU03XLoe3Td0cPv95VzrI4NpoFImz8G4KWgRSdRkhJoa-dainFZKZTLKgrfXmDckd875NcRQHEnqgu9EL85ZZ_-Djv4YQx-9ggjXla0z2p5CFS49xB8OTw6dXxoR75v00KCPcsN0B1z9ZCwc5T4Gvb

wildlife.nh.gov/highway-recreational-vehicles-ohrv-and-snowmobiles/ohrv-and-snowmobile-frequently-asked-questions