Citrus County Injury Attorney Blog
A 17-year-old Inverness teen riding an ATV an hour after sunset on March 10 was killed when he was hit from behind by a car on a county road, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.
Troopers claim the teen was not wearing a helmet and did not have working lights on his ATV while he was travelling west on Citrus County Road 581 around 8:39 p.m.
A 38-year-old Hernando woman was travelling in the same direction as the teen just west of Woodcrest Avenue when she rammed into the back of the ATV, troopers said.
The 17-year-old died at the scene. According to the FHP, the woman was not harmed.
No charges have been filed.
All-terrain vehicles, otherwise known as ATVs or 4-wheelers, are popular recreational vehicles for people of all ages, but the reality is that they are risky automobiles for all riders and passengers. Each year, hundreds of deaths and thousands more injuries occur due to ATV-related accidents. As with motor vehicle accidents, some of these incidents can be blamed on acts of negligence, which means accident victims or their families may be entitled to financial compensation for their losses.
Many ATVs can reach speeds as fast as 55 MPH and can weigh as much as 500 pounds. As the speed and size increases in these vehicles so does the risk of suffering an injury. The reality is that most ATV deaths and injuries can be prevented by wearing property safety equipment, like helmets and goggles. An estimated 75 percent of all ATV accidents result in catastrophic injuries to the head, brain and spinal cord. Injuries of these natures can require lengthy treatment periods or even be permanent.
If you have suffered a personal injury or have lost a loved one in an ATV-related accident, a Citrus County ATV & 4-Wheeler Accident Attorney at Whittel & Melton can make sure your case receives the attention that it deserves while you attempt to get your life back in order. Trying to navigate the legal system and insurance process without the help of a personal injury or wrongful death lawyer is not recommended and can actually be unproductive. For a free initial consultation, call us today at 352-726-0078 or contact us online.