A 15-year-old girl died on Thursday, June 10th, when the UTV she was riding in rolled, pinning her underneath. Officials say four teenage girls were riding on the vehicle at the time of the crash.
A teenage girl passed away on Thursday in Montgomery when the Intimidator utility task vehicle (UTV) she and three other girls were riding in flipped and rolled onto its side.
The four girls were siding around the Crown Ranch Subdivision on Crown Oaks Boulevard at about 9:45 p.m. when the crash occurred. The girls were reportedly speeding down the road when they came to a curve and jerked the UTV to the right, causing it to flip. The UTV rolled onto its side, finally coming to rest against a transformer box.
The now-deceased girl was trapped under the UTV when emergency responders arrived on the scene. Responding officers reported that they attempted CPR on the unresponsive girl, but were unable to revive her. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
At least one of the other girls was treated for minor injuries, and at least one was wearing a seatbelt at the time of the wreck, according to authorities.
None of the identities of those involved have been released at this time.
UTV accidents are, unfortunately, common. In fact, this accident isn’t even the first serious UTV crash of the year in Texas. UTV’s are usually equipped with roll cages and are generally relatively sturdy vehicles, but accidents can still result in serious injuries or death.
In most cases, UTV accidents are caused by reckless behavior on the part of the driver. Speeding is a common cause, as is overturning on curves. Failing to stop at stop signs or failure to follow other road rules are also often to blame for these incidents.
Using a UTV while intoxicated or under the influence is arguably as dangerous for the driver as drinking and driving would be. Driving a UTV is similar but not the same as driving a car, and under-experienced drivers can easily become involved in accidents.
Again, UTVs are known for being tough. However, that doesn’t mean that they’re able to handle all weather and terrain. Poor weather, rough ground, and dangerous terrain can all cause UTVs to crash.
Finally, while failing to wear a seat belt might not cause a collision, it can make any accident that does take place far more dangerous.
While UTV accidents have the potential to be as deadly as certain car crashes, the rules regarding their use aren’t as well known and arguably aren’t taken as seriously. However, if you’re planning on driving a UTV, knowing when and how to use the machine is essential.
No amount of reading can give you the experience you need to safely drive a UTV, but you can find the best practices for using a UTV when you download our guide. Don’t forget to share it with friends to help them stay safe, too.
Source : FOX26