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Montana ATV Accident Attorneys

When An Off Road Ride Goes Wrong

ATV and UTV rides are a big part of life in Western Montana, from forest service roads near Lolo Pass to ranch land outside Missoula. When a machine rolls, a trail hazard appears without warning, or another rider is careless, serious injuries can follow. Bulman, Jones & Cook helps people injured in Montana ATV accidents understand their rights and pursue compensation after a day that was supposed to be fun.

Common Causes Of ATV And UTV Crashes

Many ATV wrecks involve rollovers on uneven ground, collisions between riders, hidden obstacles, or machines that were poorly maintained or rented out in unsafe condition. In wooded areas and on logging roads, limited sightlines and loose rock can make even experienced riders vulnerable. We investigate where you were riding, who owned the machine, and what decisions led up to the crash.

Injuries In ATV Accidents

Because there is little protection around you, ATV crashes can cause broken bones, crush injuries, spinal cord damage, and traumatic brain injuries. Recovery may involve surgery, physical therapy, and long stretches where you cannot work or enjoy the outdoors. Our team documents both immediate treatment and long term needs so any settlement reflects the true cost of an off road injury.

Who May Be Responsible For An ATV Injury

Responsibility for an ATV accident can fall on another rider, a negligent landowner, a rental company that supplied unsafe equipment, or a manufacturer that built a defective machine. In some cases, more than one person or company shares fault. We look at property records, maintenance histories, and design information to identify every potential source of recovery.

Montana Recreation Laws And Insurance Issues

Off road crashes do not always involve standard auto insurance, so understanding which policies apply is critical. There may be ATV specific coverage, homeowner's insurance, or commercial policies if the ride was guided or on paid property. Bulman, Jones & Cook sorts through the insurance maze and explains how Montana recreation rules may affect your claim.

ATV Accident FAQs

  • Does auto insurance cover ATV accidents?

    Standard auto policies usually exclude off road vehicles, but some riders purchase separate ATV coverage. In other cases, a landowner's or homeowner's policy may apply, especially if the crash happened on private property. We review all available policies to find coverage.

  • Can I bring a claim if a friend was driving the ATV?

    Yes, passengers have the right to seek compensation when a driver is negligent, even if that driver is a friend or family member. Often the claim is resolved through insurance, not personal assets, which can ease those conversations. We handle the legal side so you can focus on recovery and relationships.

  • What if an ATV flipped because of a design problem?

    Some machines have stability or braking issues that increase rollover risk. If we suspect a design or manufacturing defect, we may pursue a product liability claim against the maker or seller. That process involves technical experts who can explain what went wrong.

  • How long do I have to file an ATV injury claim in Montana?

    Montana law sets time limits for personal injury cases, and most claims must be filed within a few years of the crash. Claims against government agencies for crashes on public land can have shorter deadlines and special notice requirements. It is best to talk with a lawyer as soon as possible so those timelines are protected.

  • What should I do after an ATV accident?

    Get medical care promptly, even if you walked away from the scene, since some injuries show up later. Take photographs of the machine, helmet, terrain, and any visible injuries if you can. Report the incident to property owners or tour operators and then contact an attorney to review your options.

Contact Us For ATV Injury Help

If your ATV crash happened near Missoula, Lolo National Forest, Seeley Lake, Flathead country, or on ranch land in Western Montana, we are ready to help. Bulman, Jones & Cook offers free consultations and contingency fee representation in many ATV cases. Call 406-721-7744 or send a message to talk with a Montana ATV accident attorney.