Off-road adventures on all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are a popular pastime throughout Texas, from rural trails to recreational parks. But while ATVs offer fun and freedom, they also come with serious risks. Every year, thousands of riders suffer injuries in ATV accidents, many of which result in costly medical bills, lost income, and long-term consequences.
At JML Injury Law, we want to help Texans understand how they can better protect themselves and their families. One key way to do that is by carrying Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance. This blog explains what PIP insurance is, how it applies to ATV accidents, and why it matters more than ever.
Understanding PIP Insurance in Texas
Personal Injury Protection (PIP) is a type of no-fault insurance that covers medical expenses, lost wages, and essential services after a crash, regardless of who caused the accident. In Texas, insurance providers are required to offer PIP coverage when issuing auto policies, although policyholders can choose to decline it in writing.
While PIP is commonly associated with car accidents, its benefits can extend to off-road vehicle accidents, including ATVs, under the right circumstances. However, the specific applicability depends on the policy and whether the ATV is covered by a standard or recreational vehicle insurance plan.
Are ATVs Covered by Auto Insurance in Texas?
In most cases, ATVs are not covered under a standard Texas auto insurance policy. Instead, they must be insured under a separate recreational vehicle policy. Unfortunately, many ATV owners mistakenly believe their car insurance will cover injuries sustained during off-road use.
If you do not have a specific ATV policy that includes PIP or medical payments coverage (MedPay), you may be left paying out of pocket for injuries—even if the crash was caused by someone else.
Why PIP Coverage Is Essential for ATV Riders
Here are several reasons why PIP coverage is especially important for ATV owners and riders in Texas:
1. High Risk of Injury
ATVs offer minimal protection in a crash. Riders are fully exposed, and even a minor collision can cause broken bones, head trauma, or spinal injuries. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), thousands of ATV-related injuries are reported each year in Texas alone.
2. Medical Bills Add Up Quickly
Emergency room visits, X-rays, surgeries, and follow-up care can be financially devastating. PIP helps cover these costs upfront, reducing the financial stress that often follows an accident.
3. PIP Pays Regardless of Fault
Even if you are partially or fully at fault in an ATV crash, PIP still pays for covered medical expenses and lost wages. This no-fault feature provides a safety net when liability is unclear or disputed.
4. Not All ATV Accidents Involve Other Vehicles
Many ATV accidents happen on private property or trails, where no other driver is involved. In these cases, you may not have anyone to file a claim against. PIP ensures you still have coverage for your injuries.
5. It Helps Cover Passengers
If a passenger is injured while riding your ATV, PIP may also cover their medical costs. This can prevent disputes and provide peace of mind for everyone involved.
Who Is Most at Risk in ATV Accidents?
Children and teens are among the most vulnerable. Many families purchase ATVs as gifts or allow their children to operate them without fully understanding the dangers. Unfortunately, minors often lack the training and experience to operate these powerful machines safely.
If your child is injured in an ATV accident, PIP can help cover their medical expenses. In some cases, it can also reduce the legal liability parents might face if their child causes injury to someone else.
What Expenses Does PIP Insurance Cover?
In Texas, PIP coverage generally includes:
- Medical and hospital bills
- Rehabilitation and therapy
- Ambulance and emergency care
- Lost wages due to the accident
- Essential services (such as childcare or housekeeping if the injury prevents normal activities)
The minimum required PIP coverage is $2,500 per person, but many insurance providers offer higher limits—and we often recommend increasing your coverage to $5,000 or $10,000 for better protection.
ATV Accidents and Legal Liability
If another person’s negligence caused your ATV accident—such as a property owner failing to maintain a safe trail or another rider behaving recklessly—you may have a personal injury claim. However, proving fault in these cases can be difficult, especially if the accident occurred off-road or on private property.
PIP provides a layer of coverage that does not depend on proving someone else was at fault. This can be crucial when injuries are serious but liability is unclear.
What if the ATV Was a Gift?
During the holiday season, many families give ATVs as gifts. But few realize that doing so without proper insurance creates a major financial risk. If the recipient is injured and the vehicle lacks coverage, there may be no compensation for medical expenses or time away from work.
Before purchasing an ATV for yourself or a loved one:
- Check with your insurance provider about adding PIP coverage
- Consider a comprehensive recreational vehicle policy
- Educate your family members on safe riding practices
Do You Need a Lawyer for an ATV Injury Claim?
If you’ve been injured in an ATV accident and another person may be at fault, it is crucial to speak with a Texas personal injury attorney. At JML Injury Law, we investigate the cause of the accident, identify all potential insurance coverages (including PIP), and fight to get you the compensation you deserve.
Even if no one else was involved, we can help you understand your rights under your existing insurance policies. We often find coverage clients didn’t know they had.
Tips for ATV Safety and Insurance Planning
To reduce your risk and protect your finances:
- Always wear a helmet and safety gear
- Never allow underage or untrained riders to operate an ATV
- Avoid paved roads unless crossing at designated points
- Limit riding to daylight hours
- Add PIP coverage to your recreational vehicle insurance policy
These simple steps can prevent tragedies and reduce the legal complications that follow an accident.
Contact JML Injury Law for Help After an ATV Crash
If you or someone you love has been injured in an ATV accident in Texas, JML Injury Law is here to help. As a woman-owned personal injury firm, we understand the emotional, physical, and financial toll these crashes can take. We offer personalized legal support, help identify insurance coverage options like PIP, and fight for your right to full and fair compensation.
Schedule your free consultation with JML Injury Law today. Let us help you move forward with strength and support.