The #1 Chicago ATV Accident Lawyer

ATV accidents often result from preventable negligence, whether due to reckless driving, faulty equipment, or unsafe terrain conditions.

Unlike typical roadway crashes, many ATV incidents happen on private property or off-road areas with limited oversight or safety enforcement.

In some cases, another rider, landowner, equipment manufacturer, or supervising adult may be held legally responsible.

Identifying the cause of the crash is essential to pursuing a personal injury or wrongful death claim.

Common causes of negligent ATV accidents include:

• Excessive speed or reckless operation
• Lack of supervision for underage or inexperienced riders
• Operating on unsafe or poorly maintained terrain
• Riding under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Inadequate rider training or safety instruction
• Defective brakes, tires, or steering components
• Malfunctioning throttle or sudden acceleration issues
• Failure to wear helmets or protective gear
• Overloading the ATV or improper passenger use
• Collisions with other ATVs, unexpected obstacles, or stationary objects
• Unsafe trail design or lack of warning signage
• Landowner negligence or failure to warn of hazards

Common Injuries in ATV Accidents

ATV accidents frequently result in serious injuries or even fatalities related to the high speeds and lack of external protection.

Common injuries include:

• Broken Bones
• Spinal Cord Injuries
• Neck Injuries
• Internal Organ Damage
• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI’s)
• And more

Riders may also suffer visible injuries like road rash or head injuries from being thrown off the vehicle during a crash.

These devastating injuries often require extensive medical attention, generate overwhelming medical bills, and can lead to lost wages or permanent disability.

Whether you were the ATV driver or a passenger injured in an ATV crash, a personal injury lawyer can help you recover compensation for both economic damages (like medical expenses) and non economic damages (like emotional trauma and pain).

If you’ve suffered severe injuries, speaking with an accident injury lawyer can ensure your legal rights are fully protected.

Illinois severely restricts the use of ATVs, UTVs, and other OHVs on public roads.

Under 625 ILCS 5/11‑1426.1, a “non-highway vehicle” (including ATVs, UTVs, off-highway motorcycles and recreational OHVs) may only be operated on streets if permitted by local ordinance, and only on roads with a posted speed limit of 35 mph or less (§(a)–(b)).

Operators must hold a valid driver’s license, and vehicles must meet required standards, including brakes, steering apparatus, tires, rear‑view mirror, red reflectors, slow‑moving emblem, headlight, taillight, brake lights, and turn signals (§(e)).

Crossing higher‑speed roads is allowed only at intersections and only for crossing, not travel (§(b)(c)).

Local governments may authorize limited road access if safety conditions are met and proper signage is posted (§(d)).

Illinois law also prohibits careless or reckless ATV or OHV operation under 625 ILCS 5/11‑1427, including: operating in nature preserves, on railroad tracks, tree nurseries, or other restricted areas; riding on private property without consent; speeding beyond what’s reasonably safe; and riding on public lands not designated for ATV use (§ 11‑1427 (a)–(h)).

These violations can lead to citations or civil liability (§ 11‑1427).

The Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) issues an OHV public access decal required for legal operation on public grant-assisted lands.

Owners must register ATVs or UTVs purchased after January 1, 1998, obtain a title, and apply for the annual sticker, typically costing $30 for individuals or higher for rental or agriculture use—renewable every 3 years (§ 20 ILCS 862/15 and regulations).

Although Illinois does not allow UTVs to be registered as street legal motor vehicles, some municipalities (like Durand) provide limited roadway access under local ordinances.

These may require liability insurance, proof of coverage, valid driver’s license, operation only on roads under local jurisdiction at specific hours, equipment compliance (lights, signals, seat belts), and permit display (§ 11‑303 Village code).

If you or a loved one were injured in an ATV crash due to someone else’s negligence, you may benefit from the help of an experienced ATV accident lawyer from our law firm.

ATV accidents often lead to serious injuries like traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and internal organ damage, all of which require extensive medical treatment and legal guidance.

Our accident injury lawyers are here to review your ATV accident claim, protect your legal rights, and help you pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other losses.

We offer a free consultation, so you can explore your options with no obligation.

How Much Does it Cost to Hire an ATV Accident Lawyer?

Hiring an ATV accident lawyer from our law office typically comes at no upfront cost.

We work on a contingency fee basis, which means we only get paid if we win your case and secure financial compensation.

This arrangement allows injured individuals and family members to get quality legal representation without adding to the burden of medical bills and other expenses after a crash.

Your free case evaluation can help you understand your options and determine the best path forward after an ATV crash or off road vehicle accident.

Gathering Evidence for an ATV Accident Case

After an ATV crash, collecting strong evidence is essential to prove how the accident occurred and who may be responsible.

Whether the at-fault party owed a duty of care as a property owner, ATV manufacturer, or fellow rider, the injured person must demonstrate how that duty was breached.

Evidence can reveal whether dangerous conditions, defective parts, or lack of safety gear played a role, and can also strengthen your claim with the insurance provider.

An experienced attorney can help gather legal documents, consult specialists, and provide the legal help needed to assess your legal options and pursue compensation.

Important evidence in an ATV accident case may include:

• Photos and videos of the crash site, terrain, and vehicle damage
• The ATV itself, especially if defective parts are suspected
• Medical records detailing the injured person’s diagnosis and treatment
• Incident or accident reports from first responders or law enforcement
• Documentation showing who owned the land or ATV involved (e.g., property owner records)
• Maintenance logs or repair history of the ATV
• Witness statements from riders, bystanders, or medical personnel
• Proof of worn or missing safety gear, such as helmets or restraints
• Legal documents such as waivers or rental agreements
• Manufacturer specs and recall notices from the ATV manufacturer
• Insurance policies from the rider, insurance provider, or landowner
• Photos showing dangerous conditions (e.g., unmarked hazards, unstable trails)
• Expert testimony from accident reconstruction specialists or mechanical engineers

Damages in ATV Accident Cases

ATV and utility task vehicles (UTVs) accidents often result in severe injuries, long-term recovery needs, and costly losses that impact a victim’s financial well-being.

Understanding the types of compensation available is a critical step in the legal process, especially when multiple vehicles involved lead to disputes over fault and liability.

Victims may be entitled to recover damages not only for their immediate expenses but also for long-term consequences like physical pain and suffering and emotional distress.

A strong legal case will thoroughly assess the impact of the accident and justify the full value of your claim.

Common damages in ATV accident cases may include:

• Medical expenses for emergency treatment, surgeries, and rehabilitation
• Lost wages due to missed work during recovery
• Reduced earning capacity for long-term or permanent injuries
• Physical pain and suffering, including chronic pain or disability
• Emotional distress such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD
• Repair or replacement costs for damaged vehicles involved
• Other property damage (e.g., helmets, phones, or equipment)
• Out-of-pocket expenses related to travel, prescriptions, or home care
• Loss of enjoyment of life and limitations on physical activity
• Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence or reckless conduct

At TorHoerman Law, we know that ATV and UTV accidents can change your life in an instant—especially when faulty equipment, unsafe terrain, or someone else’s carelessness is involved.

Whether the crash happened on private land or a public trail, you deserve legal advocates who will take the steering wheel and guide your case toward justice.

Our team has the experience and resources to hold negligent property owners, manufacturers, and other responsible parties accountable.

We don’t settle for quick offers.

We build strong cases backed by evidence and expert support to pursue the settlement agreement you actually deserve.

From investigation to negotiation or trial, we’re here to protect your rights and fight for your recovery.

If you’ve been injured in an ATV accident in the Chicago area, contact TorHoerman Law today for a free, no-obligation consultation.

Let us help you understand your legal options and take the first step toward fair compensation.