The end of winter and the beginning of warmer weather means Ohio residents are getting outside more just like people elsewhere in the country. Sadly, this could also signal an increase in all-terrain vehicle accidents as people participate in more outdoor activities. Many of these crashes result in severe or fatal injuries, as four people and their families recently discovered.
On a recent Sunday shortly before 12:30 a.m., troopers with the Ohio State Highway Patrol responded to reports of an accident on Township Road 429. Upon arrival, they found four individuals and a wrecked ATV. The 24-year-old man identified as the driver died at the scene from the injuries he suffered in the crash. Preliminary reports indicate he lost control of the vehicle most likely due to intoxication. He and the three passengers attended a party earlier that evening involving alcohol, which was also found on the ATV.
One of the passengers, a 21-year-old woman never regained brain activity after the accident and died the following day. A 20-year-old woman and 18-year-old man survived the crash, but suffered injuries for which they were transported to the hospital. As the investigation continues, several parties could bear liability in this crash in addition to the estate of the driver since it is suspected that alcohol was served to underage individuals.
This and other factors could come into play in wrongful death and personal injury claims that could be filed in the aftermath of this tragedy. Some crashes, including all-terrain vehicle accidents, involve more than just a negligent driver. In order to know for sure, a review of the situation by an attorney experienced in this area of law may be in order.
