$230,000 Settlement for Family Injured When SUV Struck UTVs

ATV and utility terrain vehicle (UTV) accidents often result in catastrophic injuries, particularly when they involve a collision with a passenger vehicle. Because UTV riders have little protection from the force of impact, even what appears to be a routine rear-end collision can leave victims with serious injuries and months of recovery.

John J. Malm & Associates recently secured a combined settlement of $230,000 on behalf of a father and his two adult sons after they were injured when an SUV struck two separate UTVs they were operating.

The Collision

The father and his two sons were riding together in two separate UTVs when they slowed and came to a complete stop to make a lawful left turn. Moments later, an SUV approaching from behind failed to stop and crashed into both UTVs with tremendous force.

The collision caused serious injuries to all three family members. Emergency responders quickly recognized the severity of the crash. The father was airlifted from the scene because of concerns about possible spinal injuries, while both of his adult sons were transported by separate ambulances to different hospitals for emergency evaluation and treatment.

“Many people assume ATVs and UTVs are never allowed on public roads, but that’s not always the case. Here, our clients were lawfully operating their UTVs and had the same right to use the roadway as any other motorist. The SUV driver simply failed to stop in time.” — Naperville injury attorney John J. Malm

Serious Injuries and a Long Recovery

Medical testing confirmed that the father suffered multiple rib fractures, a fracture of his thoracic spine, and significant neck injuries. He required hospitalization followed by orthopedic treatment, pain management, and months of recovery.

Like many victims of serious ATV and UTV accidents, his injuries affected nearly every aspect of daily life. Sleeping, breathing deeply, driving, exercising, and performing routine household activities all became painful and difficult during his recovery.

The emotional impact of the collision was equally significant. Not only had he suffered serious injuries himself, but he also witnessed both of his adult sons being injured in the same crash. Although all three family members ultimately recovered, the collision resulted in substantial medical expenses, lost income, and months of rehabilitation.

Liability Was Clear

Our investigation established that liability rested entirely with the driver of the SUV. The evidence showed that both UTVs had safely slowed and come to a complete stop before attempting their turn when they were struck from behind. The SUV driver failed to maintain a proper lookout and was unable to stop before crashing into the stopped vehicles.

Although many people associate ATV and UTV accidents with recreational trails or off-road riding, this case demonstrates that these vehicles may lawfully operate on certain public roadways. When they do, their operators are entitled to the same legal protections as any other motorists.

Looking Beyond the At-Fault Driver’s Insurance

One of the most important aspects of this case involved identifying every available source of insurance coverage. Many injured people assume the at-fault driver’s automobile liability insurance is the only insurance available after an ATV or UTV accident. In reality, these cases often involve multiple insurance policies, including uninsured motorist (UM), underinsured motorist (UIM), umbrella, homeowners, and other applicable coverage.

Our attorneys conducted a comprehensive insurance investigation and successfully recovered compensation not only through the at-fault driver’s liability insurance but also through additional uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage. Identifying those additional sources of recovery significantly increased the compensation available to the family.

“One of the first things we investigate after a serious ATV or UTV accident isn’t just who caused the crash, every available source of insurance coverage. In many cases, the at-fault driver’s insurance simply isn’t enough to fairly compensate an injured victim. Identifying uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage can make a substantial difference in the final recovery.” — Attorney John J. Malm

The Settlement Result

Following a thorough investigation into liability, damages, and all available insurance coverage, John J. Malm & Associates successfully resolved the claims on behalf of the father and his two adult sons for a combined settlement of $230,000.

This case demonstrates why ATV and UTV accident claims require more than simply proving who caused the collision. They require experienced attorneys who understand how to investigate serious crashes, preserve evidence, identify every available insurance policy, and pursue the maximum compensation available under the law.

Contact the Experienced Illinois ATV Accident Attorneys at John J. Malm & Associates

If you or a loved one has been injured in an ATV or UTV accident, contact John J. Malm & Associates for a free consultation. Our team of six award-winning personal injury attorneys has more than 100 years of combined litigation experience and has recovered more than $100 million for injured clients. We have the experience and resources to investigate complex ATV and UTV accident claims and help injured victims recover the compensation they deserve.