Colorado Springs ATV Accident Lawyer

Written by Timothy R. Bussey · Reviewed by Benjamin Wilcox · Last updated 27 September 2026

Key Takeaways

Deadline: 3 years if a motor vehicle was involved (C.R.S. 13-80-101(1)(n)); 2 years for most other injury claims (C.R.S. 13-80-102).
Who is liable: Whoever's negligence caused it: another rider, the person who lent or rented the machine to an untrained or underage operator, a landowner who knew of a hazard on a trail they controlled, or the manufacturer where a component or the machine
If you were partly at fault: damages are reduced by your share and barred entirely at 50% (C.R.S. 13-21-111).
Where it is filed: El Paso County Combined Courts, 270 S Tejon St, Colorado Springs, CO 80903.

Does auto insurance cover an ATV accident?

Usually not, and that is the first thing to check rather than assume.

A standard Colorado auto policy generally excludes off-highway vehicles, so coverage comes instead from a separate ATV/off-road policy, a homeowner's policy in limited circumstances, or the at-fault party's own cover. Where the ATV was on a public roadway or was struck by a car, the motor-vehicle policies come back into play — which is why where it happened matters as much as what happened.

Who is liable for an ATV or UTV accident?

Whoever's negligence caused it: another rider, the person who lent or rented the machine to an untrained or underage operator, a landowner who knew of a hazard on a trail they controlled, or the manufacturer where a component or the machine

's stability was at fault. Colorado requires helmets for riders under eighteen on a motorcycle, autocycle or low-power scooter under C.R.S. 42-4-1502(4.5)(a)(I), and off-highway vehicle rules add their own requirements by land manager.

Colorado Springs Road Laws

An ATV is a four-wheeled, gasoline-powered vehicle designed for off-road use. ATVs are equipped with either three or four wheels and have low ground clearance. They are typically ridden on rough terrains, such as mud, sand, snow, or gravel. ATVs are designed for single riders, although some models can accommodate two or more people.

Colorado ATV Laws

It is a requirement in the state of Colorado that all off-highway vehicles, this includes ATVs and UTVs, be registered with the state and have valid license numbers to be operated or even possessed.

With some exceptions, you must provide proof of ownership to register your ATV. This can be in the form of a certificate of title, receipt, or bill of sale. If you do not have a certificate of title, don't worry--as long as you have one of the other two forms of documentation, you will still be able to register your vehicle.

ATV Accident Case Results

$75,000 - ATV Accident
$74,000 - Truck-ATV Accident

View more case results.

ATV Accidents

Many ATV accidents occur every year. The most common accidents include rollovers, collisions with other vehicles or objects, and overturns. ATV riders can help prevent these accidents by understanding the risks and taking proper precautions.

Rollovers are one of the most common types of ATV accidents. They can occur when the ATV hits a bump or hole in the ground, causing it to lose control and tip over. To avoid rollovers, riders should always stay alert and watch for obstacles in the path.

Collisions with other vehicles or objects are another common type of ATV accident. These can occur when the ATV is driven on the road and struck by a car, or when two ATVs collide while riding on trails. To avoid these accidents, riders should always be aware of their surroundings and avoid driving in areas where other vehicles are present.

Overturns can occur when the ATV hits a sudden stop or is driven over uneven terrain. To avoid these accidents, riders should always drive at a safe speed and be aware of the terrain ahead of them.

Liability After an ATV Accident

Liability can be complex in Colorado Springs ATV accident cases, as multiple parties may be involved with different levels of responsibility. For example, the manufacturer may be liable if the ATV was defective in some way that led to your accident. Or, if the accident occurred on someone else's property, the property owner may then be held liable. Once liability is determined, the at-fault party may be responsible for paying for any medical treatment, property damage, or other damages that resulted from their negligence.

Steps to Take After an ATV Accident in Colorado Springs

If you are unfortunate enough to be involved in an ATV accident, there are specific steps you should take to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you.

If you can, move yourself and your ATV away from the road to avoid blocking traffic or becoming a hazard to other motorists.

Call 911 and report the accident, giving them your location and any relevant details. Once the police and/or ambulance arrive, cooperate with them as they investigate and treat any injuries.

Finally, if you are able, take pictures of the accident scene and your injuries to document what happened and help with any potential insurance claims.

Collecting Evidence After a Colorado Springs ATV Accident

Collecting evidence to support your claim is essential if you are involved in an ATV accident. Take photos of the accident scene, including any damage to the ATV and any injuries you may have sustained. Get the contact information of any witnesses to the accident. Keep any medical records or bills related to the accident and your injuries. This evidence will be substantial in proving your case and getting the compensation you deserve.

Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer in Colorado Springs After an ATV Accident

The Colorado Springs injury attorneys at The Bussey Law Firm, P.C. have broad legal knowledge and experience, which can be invaluable in getting the best possible outcome in your case. We can also provide support and guidance throughout the process, which can be helpful if you feel overwhelmed.

We can help you get the compensation you deserve and ensure that you are treated fairly by the insurance companies. Call (719) 475-2555 for a free consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions: ATV Accident Injuries in Colorado Springs, CO

Here are some frequently asked questions with informative answers to help you navigate your situation. Our Colorado Springs ATV accident lawyers are here to provide guidance and assistance in addressing these questions.

What should I do immediately after an ATV accident in Colorado Springs?

Your first priority should be your health. Seek immediate medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor. It’s essential to document your injuries and establish a connection between them and the accident. After that, report the accident to the authorities and collect information from the scene if you can do so safely.

Should I contact my insurance company after an ATV accident?

It’s advisable to report the accident to your insurance company. However, it’s crucial to be cautious about providing detailed statements without consulting an attorney. Insurance companies may use your statements to minimize your claim.

What if the ATV accident was partially my fault? Can I still file a claim for compensation?

Colorado follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still file a claim if you share some fault. However, your compensation may be reduced in proportion to your degree of fault. Consulting an attorney can help determine the impact of shared fault on your case.

What types of damages can I seek in an ATV accident injury claim?

In an ATV accident injury claim, you may seek compensation for various damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and more. An attorney can help you assess the full extent of your damages.

How long do I have to file a personal injury claim for an ATV accident in Colorado Springs?

The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Colorado is typically two years. It’s crucial to file your claim within this timeframe to preserve your legal rights. Waiting too long may result in the dismissal of your case.

Should I hire an attorney for my ATV accident injury claim, or can I handle it on my own?

While you can handle your claim independently, it’s advisable to consult an experienced attorney. ATV accident cases can be complex, and legal representation ensures that your rights are protected, and the best chance of receiving fair compensation.

How can The Bussey Law Firm, P.C. assist me with my ATV accident injury claim?

We can help you by providing a free consultation to evaluate your case, offering legal guidance to navigate complex injury laws, negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf, and, if necessary, representing you in court to fight for your rights.

How much does it cost to hire an attorney for my ATV accident injury claim?

At The Bussey Law Firm, P.C., we work on a contingency fee basis. This means that you only pay attorney fees if we successfully recover compensation for your case. There are no upfront costs, making our services accessible to all.

What should I do after an ATV accident?

Do not let the machine be repaired or moved off-site. In an ATV case the vehicle is the evidence — throttle and brake condition, tyre pressures, any modification, and the damage geometry all live on the machine and are gone once it is fixed or sold. Photograph the terrain and the trail conditions the same day, note who owned the ATV and who authorised its use, and get treated even if you walked away.

How long do I have to bring a claim for this injury in Colorado?

It depends on how you were hurt, not on the injury. Three years if a motor vehicle was involved (C.R.S. 13-80-101(1)(n)); two years for most other causes — a fall, a defective product, an assault (C.R.S. 13-80-102(1)(a)); and only 182 days to serve written notice if a public entity is responsible (C.R.S. 24-10-109(1), which the statute makes jurisdictional). Confirm which one governs early rather than assuming the longest.

What does an ATV claim cost to pursue?

Nothing up front, and nothing at all unless there is a recovery. An ATV review is free and the firm is paid a percentage of what it recovers rather than by the hour, so asking costs nothing. Call (719) 475-2555.

What if I signed a rental waiver?

A waiver is read for what it actually covers. It reaches the risk you agreed to accept, not equipment that was never inspected or a machine handed over in an unsafe condition. Bring the rental agreement.

Where is an ATV accident claim filed?

In the El Paso County Combined Courts, 270 S Tejon St, Colorado Springs, CO 80903 — the district court serving El Paso County. Most claims settle without a court appearance; if one does not, the lawsuit is filed there and must be filed before the deadline runs.

Why does the machine itself have to be preserved?

Because a mechanical or design failure can only be shown from the machine. Do not let it be repaired, sold or scrapped, and photograph it where it came to rest.

What if I was partly at fault?

You can still recover if you were less than 50% at fault. Colorado applies modified comparative fault (C.R.S. 13-21-111): your damages are reduced by your share and barred entirely at 50%.

What Are the Colorado Deadlines and Rules on This Claim?

Which deadline applies depends on how the injury happened, not on what it is called. Colorado gives three years to a claim arising from the use or operation of a motor vehicle and two years to most other injury claims. Missing the deadline normally ends the claim regardless of its merits.

Colorado deadlines and rules that apply to this claim
A claim arising from the use or operation of a motor vehicle	3 years — C.R.S. 13-80-101(1)(n)
Most other personal injury claims	2 years — C.R.S. 13-80-102
If you were partly at fault	Damages reduced by your share, barred at 50% — C.R.S. 13-21-111
Where a Colorado Springs claim is filed	El Paso County Combined Courts, 270 S Tejon St, Colorado Springs, CO 80903

Sources and References

Deadlines are cited by section to the Colorado General Assembly’s published 2024 revised statutes. This page is general information, not legal advice, and does not create an attorney-client relationship.

Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Every case is decided on its own facts.