ATVs can be a lot of fun. These all-terrain vehicles are popular with individuals and families and can be a great source of entertainment for everyone when used correctly. But sometimes, much like other vehicles, there are drivers out on the road, or off-road, that create hazards. The result can be injury, property loss or even death. When this happens, it’s important to contact an ATV accident attorney close to Des Moines as soon as possible for sound advice and guidance.
Determining the Responsible Party
Who is at fault when an ATV accident occurs? Sometimes it is other drivers that are the source of the problem. They may have been driving erratically, driving under the influence, or it could be that a child was allowed to operate an ATV. In these situations, a lawsuit would be directed at the other driver. Sometimes there are malfunctions with the ATV itself, resulting in injury or loss of life. When this happens, the manufacturer may be the responsible party.
Proving Negligence
It isn’t enough to decide who is responsible for the problem. From there, negligence must be proven. An ATV accident attorney close to Des Moines knows just what it takes to prove that someone else is responsible. This isn’t as easy as it sounds. A lawyer must show that there was a failure to use reasonable care by another party. This proof is not only required by the court system (should a case be pursued), but also by the insurance company that is looking to pay out on a claim.
Determine Compensation
Even if everyone knows who is responsible and there is plenty of proof, most people don’t know how much to ask when it comes to compensation. While there may be medical bills currently piling up or even a cost associated with repairing the ATV, there could be costs in the future that the average person doesn’t take into consideration. An attorney can help figure out the ideal amount to ask for when it comes to compensation. Browse our website for more information on pursuing an ATV accident claim or other personal injury lawsuits.