ATV and recreational vehicles

In South Dakota, off-road recreation is a way of life. However, accidents involving All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) and Utility-Terrain Vehicles (UTVs) can change your life in an instant. Because these vehicles often lack the safety cages and airbags found in passenger cars, the resulting injuries are frequently severe and life-altering.

At Moore-Faust Injury Law Group, we specialize in representing victims of off-road vehicle accidents. Whether you were injured on a ranch, a public trail in the Black Hills, or a private track, we fight to ensure you aren’t left holding the bill for someone else’s negligence.

Why off-road accidents require legal help

ATV and UTV claims are notoriously complex. Unlike standard car accidents, these incidents often occur on private land where “rules of the road” may not clearly apply. Furthermore, insurance coverage for off-road vehicles can be limited or excluded entirely from standard homeowners’ or auto policies.

We help you navigate these hurdles by:

• Identifying all insurance policies: We look beyond the driver’s policy to find underinsured, uninsured, or umbrella coverage that may apply.

• Proving fault in off-road settings: We gather evidence—such as GPS data, trail conditions, and witness statements—to prove the at-fault operator was negligent.

• Handling product liability: If a mechanical failure or design flaw (like a high center of gravity leading to a rollover) caused your accident, we hold the manufacturer accountable.

Common causes and catastrophic injuries

Most ATV/UTV accidents stem from operator error or equipment failure. Common factors include:

• Negligent operation: Speeding on unpaved roads, driving under the influence, or carrying too many passengers.

• Inexperience: Allowing untrained or underage riders to operate powerful machines.

• Rollover accidents: ATVs have a high center of gravity, making them prone to tipping even at moderate speeds.

The lack of protection often leads to “crush” injuries or ejections, resulting in:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) and severe head trauma.

• Spinal cord damage and paralysis.

• Complex fractures and limb amputations.

• Internal organ damage from impact or crushing.

Your right to compensation

If you were a passenger or a bystander injured by a negligent operator, you have a right to pursue a claim for:

• Medical bills: Including emergency transport, surgeries, and long-term rehabilitation.

• Lost income: Compensation for time missed at work and reduced future earning capacity.

• Pain and suffering: For both physical pain and the emotional trauma following a serious crash.

• Permanent disfigurement: Compensation for scarring or long-term disability.

Free, No-Obligation Consultation

Evidence at off-road accident scenes—like tire tracks and trail hazards—can disappear with the first rainfall. Do not wait to protect your rights. Contact Moore-Faust Injury Law Group today for a free review of your case