The freedom of the open trail, the adrenaline rush of carving through backcountry roads—off-roading in places like Grand Junction, Colorado and Moab, Utah offers some of the most exhilarating riding in the country. But when an ATV, UTV, side-by-side, or dirt bike ride ends in a crash—especially one caused by someone else’s carelessness—your life can change in an instant.
If you’ve been injured in an off-road accident and someone else is at fault, here’s what you need to know to protect your health, your rights, and your future.
1. Get Medical Attention Immediately
Even if you feel okay, don’t brush off the crash. Adrenaline can mask injuries, and what feels like a sore shoulder could be a fracture or worse. Go to the ER or urgent care and document everything. Medical records will play a crucial role if you pursue a legal claim.
2. Report the Incident
Call local law enforcement or park rangers to file an official report—especially in public riding areas like the Rabbit Valley trails near Grand Junction or the Sand Flats Recreation Area in Moab. This creates a paper trail and ensures that all parties' information is on record.
3. Gather Evidence on the Scene
If you’re able, take these steps before you leave the area:
- Photograph the crash site, damaged vehicles, terrain, and any visible injuries
- Get contact info for the other rider(s) and any witnesses
- Note trail or weather conditions that may have contributed
This evidence can be critical when determining fault and liability.
4. Avoid Talking to Insurance Adjusters Alone
The other rider’s insurance company might try to call you quickly after the accident—don’t talk to them without a lawyer. Their job is to minimize payouts, not to protect you. Even your own insurer may not be fully on your side if the other party is at fault.
5. Don’t Post About the Crash on Social Media
We get it—your riding crew is online, and it’s tempting to share what happened. But photos, captions, and comments can be used against you. Wait until your legal claim is resolved before sharing anything.
6. Call an Attorney Who Understands Off-Road Accidents
Not all injury lawyers understand the nuances of off-road crashes. You need someone who knows how to investigate trail hazards, manufacturer defects, and off-highway vehicle (OHV) laws in both Colorado and Utah.
At Veritas Injury Lawyers, we ride too. We know the terrain. We know the law. And we’re here to help injured riders in Grand Junction, Moab, and throughout the Western Slope.
Common Causes of ATV/UTV/Dirt Bike Crashes
While some crashes are truly accidents, many are the result of:
- Reckless riding by others in your group or nearby
- Rental companies failing to maintain equipment
- Trail organizers not marking hazards
- Defective parts or design flaws in the vehicle
If someone else’s negligence caused your injuries, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
Get a Free Case Review—We Don’t Get Paid Unless You Win
If you were injured in a side-by-side, dirt bike, ATV, or UTV accident in Grand Junction, Moab, or anywhere in Colorado or Utah, give us a call. We’ll listen to your story, explain your options, and fight to get you the compensation you deserve.
📞 Call Veritas Injury Lawyers at (970) 292-7171 or
💻 Schedule your free consultation online
Riding the backcountry should never lead to a courtroom—but if it does, make sure you have a team that knows both the law and the trail. Truth Wins.
