ATV & Off-Road Vehicle Accidents

Michigan ATV & Off-Road Vehicle Accident Claims

Michigan's vast network of ORV trails, forests, and rural terrain makes it one of the most popular states for all-terrain vehicle (ATV), utility task vehicle (UTV), and off-road vehicle (ORV) recreation. But with that popularity comes serious risk — ATV and ORV accidents frequently result in catastrophic injuries including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, broken bones, and death. Koussan Law represents victims of off-road vehicle accidents throughout Michigan.

Common Causes of ATV Accidents

Off-road vehicle accidents in Michigan result from a range of negligent behaviors and dangerous conditions: operator inexperience or recklessness, allowing underage or unlicensed riders on vehicles designed for adults, defective ATV design or manufacturing (particularly rollovers linked to high center-of-gravity designs), poorly maintained or unmarked trails, collisions with other vehicles or fixed objects, and alcohol impairment while riding. In many cases, multiple parties bear responsibility.

Michigan ORV Laws and Liability

Michigan's Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act governs ORV operation (MCL § 324.81101 et seq.), establishing age restrictions, safety certificate requirements for younger riders, and trail usage rules. Violations of these regulations can establish negligence per se in an injury claim. When a property owner opens their land for ORV use and fails to warn of hidden hazards, they may be liable under premises liability principles. When an ATV has a design or manufacturing defect, the manufacturer faces product liability claims under Michigan's Product Liability Act.

Injuries in Off-Road Accidents

ATVs and UTVs lack the safety features of enclosed vehicles — no seatbelts (on many models), no airbags, no roll cages, and minimal crash protection. Riders are fully exposed to the terrain. The resulting injuries are often severe: traumatic brain injuries (even with helmets), spinal cord injuries and paralysis, crushing injuries from rollovers, severe fractures, and internal organ damage. Children are disproportionately represented in ATV fatalities.

Call Koussan Law at (313) 800-0000 after an ATV or off-road vehicle accident.