60 Riders have been killed in Rhino Accidents

Summer is here and that means off-road riding is in high season in many communities.

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, 60 riders have been killed in Rhino accidents and more than 440 wrongful death and personal injury lawsuits are pending, while Yamaha has settled others.

Many stem from rollovers in which drivers or passengers fell or were flung through the open door space to the ground, then smashed by the 1,100 pound vehicle. Adults and children as young as 3 years old have suffered serious injuries, including amputated limbs and crushed legs, arms or heads.

In March 2009, a free vehicle repair and helmet giveaway was offered to all owners of Rhino model 450, 660 and 700 recreational off-highway vehicles (ROVs), in order to enhance stability and reduce the potential for rollover, as well as improve occupant protection.

In order to provide a safer ride, all Rhinos must have half-doors, additional passenger handholds, spacers on the rear wheels, and the rear anti-sway bar removed. Consumers should immediately stop using Rhino ROVs until the repairs are installed by a dealer.

For additional information on the free Rhino repair progarm, contact Yamaha at 800-962-7926 anytime, or visit the firm's Web site at www.yamaha-motor.com.

For more information, please contact one of our personal injury attorneys at 1-877-MESSALAW.