With warmer weather, off-roading on ATVs and UTVs becomes a popular activity across Pennsylvania—especially in rural and mountainous areas like those near Scranton. But when a ride ends in a serious accident, who is legally responsible?
At Pisanchyn Law Firm, we help victims of off-road vehicle crashes navigate their legal options. Whether you were injured due to another rider’s carelessness, a mechanical failure, or an unsafe trail, you may be entitled to compensation. Here’s what you need to know about liability in ATV and UTV accidents in Pennsylvania.
What’s the Difference Between an ATV and UTV?
ATV (All-Terrain Vehicle): Typically a 3- or 4-wheeled vehicle ridden like a motorcycle
UTV (Utility Task Vehicle or Side-by-Side): Larger, enclosed vehicles designed for off-road utility with seat belts and roll cages
Both are powerful machines—and both can cause serious or even fatal injuries when operated improperly or under unsafe conditions.
Common Causes of ATV/UTV Accidents
Reckless driving by another rider
Defective equipment or failed safety systems
Poorly maintained trails or private land hazards
Operating on roads illegally or without safety gear
Collisions during guided tours or rental excursions
Lack of supervision when minors are involved
Who Can Be Held Liable for an ATV/UTV Crash?
Liability in ATV and UTV accidents depends on how the accident occurred and who contributed to it:
1. Another Rider or Driver
If another ATV or UTV operator acted recklessly—speeding, swerving, or failing to follow trail rules—they may be held responsible through a personal injury claim.
2. Property Owner or Trail Operator
If you were injured due to unsafe trail conditions, lack of signage, or hidden hazards, the landowner or trail manager may be liable under premises liability laws.
3. Rental or Tour Companies
When accidents happen on a guided ATV tour or with rented vehicles, liability may fall on the company—especially if they:
Failed to maintain the vehicle
Didn’t provide safety gear
Allowed inexperienced riders to operate dangerous equipment
4. Manufacturer or Dealer
If your accident was caused by a mechanical failure, you may have a product liability claim against the manufacturer or retailer.
5. Parent or Guardian
If a child is injured due to improper supervision or unlawful operation, the supervising adult could be legally responsible.
Common ATV/UTV Injuries We See in PA
Traumatic brain injuries (especially without helmets)
Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
Broken bones and internal bleeding
Road rash, burns, or lacerations
Wrongful death
ATV Accidents in Scranton, PA and Beyond
Many off-road accidents occur in Lackawanna, Luzerne, Monroe, and surrounding counties, where riders explore backwoods trails or rural properties. If you were injured in a recreational or guided ride, it’s critical to speak with a UTV accident attorney in Scranton who understands both local law and trail-use regulations.
How Long Do You Have to File a Claim?
In Pennsylvania, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. However, evidence fades quickly in off-road cases—so acting fast can significantly strengthen your claim.
How an ATV Injury Lawyer in Pennsylvania Can Help
These cases are complex and often involve:
Disputes over fault or negligence
Uncooperative insurance companies
Inexperienced riders or minors
Equipment manufacturers or tour operators
Our legal team can investigate the crash, gather expert testimony, and fight to get you compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and long-term recovery needs.
Injured in an ATV or UTV Crash? Call Pisanchyn Law Firm Today
Whether your accident happened on private land, a rental tour, or public trail, our experienced ATV injury lawyers in Pennsylvania are ready to help. We serve clients in Scranton, Harrisburg, Pittsburgh, and throughout PA.
