Yamaha Side By Side Rollover Lawsuits: Many riders remain unaware of the problems with the Rhino
The product liability lawyers at Saiontz & Kirk, P.A. represent individuals throughout the United States who are pursuing a Yamaha Rhino lawsuit as a result of design defects which caused their side by side to rollover. Unfortunately, many riders who have been injured in accidents remain unaware that their injuries could have been prevented if Yamaha had used a reasonable alternative design or provided adequate safety features. In fact, sales of the Yamaha side by side continue to be strong, and many riders are actually under the false impression that the Rhino is safer and sturdier than traditional ATV.
>>INFORMATION: Yamaha Side By Side Rollover Problems
Yamaha Rhino Side by Side
The Yamaha side by side is an all terrain vehicle which allows two passengers to sit next to each other, with a flat bed in the back. Fans of the Rhino have suggested that it is a cross between an ATV, a Jeep and a dune buggy that drives like a car. These features have made it an attractive alternative to motor cycles and traditional ATV for many families and older consumers.
In reality, the Yamaha Rino side by side was designed with a very high center of gravity on a narrow wheel base. This makes it prone to roll over, even when it is operated at low speeds on flat surfaces. In addition, Yamaha sold the Rhino without proper safety equipment which could have reduced the risk of riders’ arms and legs getting crushed under the weight of the vehicle during a rollover.
>>PRIOR POST (4/8/2008): Yamaha Rhino Accidents due to known defects
Neither Yamaha nor the dealers are doing an adequate job of warning riders about the dangers associated with the Rhino. In addition, reviews of the vehicle continue to minimize the risk of serious and debilitating injuries which could occur in a rollover. A recent article in the Statesman Journal, of Oregon’s Mid-Williamette Valley, describes how the Rhino ha become a popular family vehicle. One fan of the Yamaha side by side stated:
“[Y]ou can also put four seats in it,” said Bev Stubbs, whose family rides with Salem Sand Club. “We have friends who have a young set of twins, and they put car seats for them in the back, put helmets on the kids, strap them in and go out and tool with everyone else.”
Later in the article, dismissing the risk of rollovers, this same mother stated:
“Oh yes, they’ll roll over,” Stubbs said. “The people who have the twins rolled theirs, but they were perfectly protected. They just tipped it up and kept right on going.”
YAMAHA RINO LAWSUITS
Many of the people who have contacted our lawyers about a potential Yamaha side by side lawsuit, are calling about injuries which occurred several years ago. They are just now learning about the problems associated with the Rhino, despite the fact that Yamaha has been aware of the stability issues for years. If you, a friend or family member have suffered severe fractures or other injuries in a Rhino rollover, it is very important any potential claim be reviewed as soon as possible. Every state has a Statute of Limitations which requires that a lawsuit be brought within a certain amount of time. To have a potential claim reviewed, request a free consultation and claim evaluation.
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