The 5 Most Common Causes of Off-road Vehicle Collisions in Vancouver and How to Avoid Them

The Vancouver area is home to some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the world, and there's no better way to explore them than on an off-road vehicle (ORV) or an all-terrain vehicle (ATV). Unfortunately, many people who get behind the wheel of an ORV don't understand the hazards of this kind of recreation, especially in urban areas like Vancouver. Here is an outline of the five most common causes of ORV collisions and how to avoid them to keep you safe.

1. Driving in Adverse Weather without Adequate Headlight and Other Requirements

One of the most common causes of off-road vehicle collisions is driving under adverse weather conditions without a good headlight and other extreme weather enabling requirements such as well-treaded tires. To avoid this, it is essential to always check the forecast before heading out on a drive. If the weather is bad enough, consider postponing your trip or using another form of transportation. Headlights, tail lights, brake lights, and turn signals are vital while operating an off-road vehicle during poor weather conditions.

It is also imperative to ensure that headlights point in the direction you want to go and that taillights are flashing for maximum visibility. Clean your headlight often with rubbing alcohol or water and cloths so they can last longer. The lens's lower half should also be clean since settled dirt will interfere with light output. It's crucial to ensure all lenses are clean by removing any dirt, dust, oil film, and spider webs from their surfaces with a cloth soaked in warm water and detergent; rinse with cold water, then buff dry.

However, keep a 3-second following distance behind vehicles traveling faster than you to ensure you have time to react in case of a sudden eventuality. Do not forget about your fellow driver's safety and follow these tips for safe winter travel!Getting specialized representation from an ATV accident Attorney after an ATV accident is crucial to achieving a successful maximum compensation

2. Driving While Intoxicated

One of the most common causes of off-road vehicle collisions is driving while intoxicated. Alcohol and drugs impair your driving ability, and even small amounts can make it difficult to operate a vehicle safely. If you drink, make sure you have a designated driver. Whether you're driving while being in actual physical control of a motor vehicle or under the Influence of intoxicating liquor, there are several charges that authorities can levy against you for violating these laws:

• Operating While Intoxicated (OWI)
• Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
• Driving under the Influence per se (DUII)
• Minor Operated Motor Vehicle with Drugs or Alcohol

Therefore, it's always a good idea to call a taxi when someone isn't sober enough to get behind the wheel. However, in case of an off-road vehicle collision in Vancouver, you should contact an experienced and qualified legal professional to help you understand how the process can work best for your situation and avoid complications in the event of an accident.

3. Distracted Driving

According to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), distracted driving is one of Vancouver's most common causes of off-road vehicle collisions. And it's no wonder, with so many things competing for everyone's attention these days. Here are five tips to help you avoid being distracted while driving:

• Keep your eyes on the road at all times.
• Put your phone away before you get behind the wheel.
• Pull over to a safe location first if you must use your phone.
• Never take both hands off the steering wheel, even if only briefly.
• Turn down the volume on music or other media if it becomes distracting during any part of your drive.

That way, you can avoid divided attention which is a lethal distraction on the road with your ATV. You have to be aware of what's going on around your environment. That could mean looking over your shoulder and noticing when somebody changes lanes.

4. Over Speeding and Reckless Driving

Off-road vehicle collisions are often due to drivers speeding and driving recklessly. Vancouver is no exception. If you're driving an off-road vehicle in Vancouver, obey the speed limit and drive carefully. You could face a fine or jail time if you're speeding or driving recklessly. Remember that ATVs have a high center of gravity and can quickly flip over if they go too fast.

Always take your time and caution when driving an off-road vehicle in Vancouver. Avoid carrying passengers in the rear seat of an ATV or UTV or doubling because this increases the risk of rolling over. However, prudent control and adherence to speed limits may help you reduce the chances of running into another vehicle or person.

5. Road Rage and Failure to Yield the Right of Way

Riding ATVs under challenging riding trails is an adventure. However, it would help if you took the proper precautions to avoid collisions which can prove fatal. Road rage and failure to yield the right of way are two common causes of the off-road vehicle collision.

• Be aware that other drivers may not have your best interests at heart when driving on a trail
• Make sure you have plenty of space between yourself and other drivers as they may react unpredictably.
• If a driver cuts you off or drives aggressively near your vehicle, do not try to follow them - it's best to ride away before things escalate any further.

Being cautious while riding on an ATV helps calm nerves and thus increases vigilance, resulting in safer rides.

Conclusion

The best way to combat off-road vehicle collisions is by increasing overall awareness in the community of these types of incidents. The most common causes above apply to almost all off-road vehicle incidents. It's also vital to note that compliance and enforcement are paramount in preventing these incidents. Doing so will help reduce the number and severity of catastrophic off-road vehicle accidents in our local community. However, contacting a reliable ATV accident lawyer is crucial in achieving the best compensation and protecting your rights to help you never regret being an ATV enthusiast.