Between 1982 and 2005, West Virginia had the fifth highest number of ATV-related deaths in the United States, with 339 fatalities during this period. This number was the highest per capita in the US, with the total number only behind four much more populated states including California and Texas. The latest reports show that between 2006 and 2008, 134 more people died due to ATV-related crashes in West Virginia, bringing the state's total to the highest in the nation overall for this period.

Since 2008, a growing level of public outrage over ATV-related deaths has caused state legislators to take notice, particularly in the cases involving minors. Currently, West Virginia state law requires ATV riders to have under 18 to take a rider safety awareness course and to wear helmets at all times. Riders under the age of 18 are also banned from having minor passengers on board their ATVs.

For riders of all ages, headlights and taillights must be used between sunrise and sunset. ATVs cannot be driven on paved roads with a center line or roads with more than two lanes, except to cross or to get from one trail to another. Although helmet use is not a state requirement over the age of 18, they are strongly recommended for all riders and passengers.

If you or someone you care about has been injured in an ATV accident, the insurance issues surrounding your case can be tricky. You're going to need a resourceful West Virginia personal injury attorney to help you fight for your rights.