Police in Washington, D.C. have been cracking down on those who ride or use illegal vehicles like dirt bikes and ATVs on District roads. Since early April, police have seized more than 30 off-road vehicles and arrested more than 27 riders.

Washington, D.C. and Baltimore police have long battled with the illegal use of off-road vehicles that they say are driven by out-of-control operators who take over the roads and ignore traffic laws. Drivers of these vehicles are often younger and either do not know the rules of the road or simply ignore them. They can be extremely dangerous to pedestrians and motorists alike.

Accidents Involving Off-Road Vehicles

Off-road vehicles have been the cause of several accidents in the Washington, D.C. and Baltimore areas. In early June, police described an arrest they made after a collision of two ATVs in the District. The collision occurred after one driver noticed the police and attempted to flee. He ran into another ATV in his efforts to escape police.

In Baltimore, an 18-year-old girl from Fairfax County was walking when she was struck by a group of ATV riders along Pratt Street. None of the riders stopped even after the collision. The girl suffered from a fractured skull as a result of the accident.

That same day, in another section of Baltimore, a motorist hit someone on a dirt bike. The rider’s friend beat up the motorist as a result of the collision.

Legal Consequences of Illegal Off-Road Vehicle Riding

Driving these vehicles on the roads is illegal, but police are not allowed to pursue the vehicles because it is too dangerous. Instead, police have posted photos of local wanted ATV riders in an effort to catch them. A reward of $250 is being offered for any information provided.

Off-road vehicle riders can also face civil liability when they cause harm to another person. They may be forced to pay for medical bills, lost wages and a variety of other damages related to the injury.

If you or a loved one has been injured by an off-road vehicle, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact the auto accident lawyers at Goldberg Finnegan to schedule a free, no obligation consultation today.