Common Injuries From ATV Accidents in South Carolina

Common Injuries From ATV Accidents in South Carolina

With its well-established, extensive network of off-road opportunities and gorgeous terrain, South Carolina is well-suited to ATV enthusiasts. Those in Orangeburg also have easy access to many prime locations. While ATV trail riding is exhilarating and a great way to maximize your downtime, ATV accidents tend to be exceptionally dangerous. If you’ve suffered an injury in an ATV accident that was caused by someone else’s negligence, it’s time to consult with our experienced Orangeburg injury attorney at D. Craig Brown.

The Injuries That Are Associated with ATV Accidents

The impact of an ATV accident can be far reaching. Unlike occupants of enclosed passenger vehicles, ATV riders have little protection between themselves and the ground, surrounding objects, or other vehicles during a crash.

Spinal Cord Injuries

The spinal cord plays a critical role in all coordinated bodily movement, and even a relatively minor spinal cord injury can lead to serious health concerns. Severe spinal cord injuries can cause significant changes in movement, sensation, strength, and bodily functions and, in some cases, partial or complete paralysis.

Broken Bones

A broken bone is not only incredibly painful but can also lead to long-term complications that include chronic pain and serious losses related to range of motion.

Traumatic Brain Injuries

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are among the most serious injuries associated with ATV accidents. Because they affect the brain, the effects can be unpredictable, ranging from mild concussions to lasting cognitive or physical impairment, and the emotional toll on victims and their families is often significant.

Helmet use plays a major role in the severity of a TBI, but it doesn’t tell the whole story. Riders wearing a properly fitted helmet can still suffer a serious brain injury if the force of the impact is severe enough, and riders without a helmet don’t always sustain one. A helmet affects the likelihood and severity of a brain injury, not whether one occurred.

That distinction matters in a personal injury claim. Some people assume that riding without a helmet automatically defeats a claim, or that wearing one guarantees a straightforward case. Neither is true. Helmet use may become relevant depending on the rider’s age, the circumstances of the crash, and the injuries involved, but it does not automatically determine whether an injured rider has a valid claim. Courts look at the full picture, including how the accident happened, who was responsible for the conditions that caused it, and the extent of the injuries suffered, when determining fault and damages.

Other Kinds of Common Injuries

Other kinds of injuries that victims of ATV accidents often experience include the following:

South Carolina generally requires personal injury lawsuits to be filed within three years, although exceptions may shorten or otherwise affect the applicable deadline. Missing the deadline that applies to your case can prevent you from pursuing compensation. This means that, if you don’t file a lawsuit within this three-year window, you’ll likely have no further legal recourse. Working closely with an experienced ATV accident lawyer from the start is always in your best interest.

Our Experienced Orangeburg, SC, ATV Accident Lawyer Can Help

Craig Brown is our seasoned Orangeburg ATV accident attorney at D. Craig Brown, and he’ll spare no effort in his focused pursuit of rightful compensation on your behalf. Learn more by contacting us online or calling 843-676-0169 today.