Ottawa, nestled along the Illinois and Fox Rivers in LaSalle County, is surrounded by state parks, trails, and open recreational spaces that attract off-road riders. While ATVs offer outdoor fun and utility, they can also lead to devastating accidents when operated unsafely or when others fail to maintain safe environments. If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in an ATV crash near Ottawa, you may be entitled to financial compensation.
Our trusted ATV accident lawyers in ottawa-il represent injured riders, passengers, and pedestrians. We help victims recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and long-term recovery needs.
Call us now at 312-261-5656 for a free, no-obligation consultation, available 24/7. With our no-fee-unless-we-win policy, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the rest.
Common injuries from ATV crashes:
- Concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Compound fractures and crushed limbs
- Burns, lacerations, and road rash
- Internal bleeding and organ damage
- Facial disfigurement and dental trauma
Many ATV accidents require emergency care, surgery, rehabilitation, and months or years of follow-up treatment. Prompt legal help ensures your claim includes all medical documentation and potential future costs.
What Causes ATV Accidents in Ottawa?
Ottawa’s proximity to Starved Rock, Buffalo Rock, and other natural areas means increased ATV use, but also higher risk. Accidents often involve:
- Rollovers on uneven terrain, hills, or soft ground
- Reckless riding on trails or near campsites and roads
- Inexperience, especially among youth or rental users unfamiliar with local trails
- Failure to use helmets or protective gear
- Mechanical issues, such as steering, brakes, or suspension failure
- Poor trail maintenance or lack of signage
We investigate the scene, interview witnesses, and gather evidence to determine what happened and who is at fault.
Who Can Be Held Liable for an ATV Accident in ottawa-il?
Depending on the crash circumstances, one or more parties may be liable:
- The ATV driver, if their reckless or negligent behavior caused injury
- Landowners, for unsafe conditions or failing to warn riders of known hazards
- Manufacturers or retailers, for defective equipment or parts
- Tour guides or rental companies, for failing to provide safety instructions or inspect vehicles
We apply Illinois negligence law (625 ILCS 5/11-601) and product liability standards to ensure accountability.
What Damages Can You Recover in an ATV Injury Claim?
After an ATV crash, your losses may go beyond immediate medical expenses. Compensation can include:
- Medical bills, from ambulance services to surgery, rehab, and prescriptions
- Lost wages, including diminished earning capacity if you can’t return to your previous job
- Pain and suffering, such as chronic pain, mental distress, or loss of enjoyment of life
- Property damage, including damage to the ATV, gear, or personal items
- Scarring or disfigurement, especially in facial injury cases
- Loss of consortium, if your relationship or family role is affected
Our firm works with medical and financial experts to calculate a full, future-facing damages estimate.
For a free legal consultation, call 312-261-5656Why Choose Our Ottawa-IL ATV Accident Lawyers?
With decades of experience handling personal injury cases in LaSalle County, our attorneys understand the region’s trails, terrain, and local legal standards. We provide effective, empathetic legal services to every client.
Local Experience
We know the ATV paths, forest preserves, and rural property laws relevant to Ottawa and nearby towns like Marseilles and Naplate.
Proven Results
We’ve recovered millions in compensation for Illinois injury victims through aggressive negotiation and skilled trial work.
Individualized Care
Every client receives one-on-one attorney guidance, not just staff support. We are committed to regular updates and transparency.
No Fee Unless We Win
We work on contingency—you don’t pay anything unless we recover money for you.
Explore Illinois ATV Safety Laws and Helmet Guidelines
Visit CPSC’s National ATV Injury Resources
Illinois Legal Deadline for ATV Injury Claims
According to 735 ILCS 5/13-202, personal injury claims in Illinois must be filed within two years from the date of the accident. Failure to file on time can permanently bar your right to compensation.
Early legal action helps preserve evidence, secure witness statements, and establish the strongest possible claim.
EXCELLENT Based on 315 reviews Kat Chow2024-11-22Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I can't stress enough how grateful I am that we hired Paul Marriett to help us with our case. His communication was not only timely and thorough but also understandable. He did a phenomenal job guiding us through the process and preparing us for the courtroom, which put our minds at ease. Once our hearing came, he did his job flawlessly and won our case. Additionally, he was quite pleasant to speak with when our judge was behind schedule and while the court was in recess. I highly recommend him to anyone needing an attorney and will reach out again in the future should we ever need representation. angel martinez2024-11-15Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very professional and helpful! I would recommend to all my friends and family to hire him. He was eager to know the circumstances of my case even before I hired him. I did contact other lawyers and offices, but none came close to the comfort I felt while talking to Mr. Marriertt, I really felt like he cared about the situation I found myself in. He deserves 6 stars for going above and beyond John Harker2024-11-04Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Paul helped me out with a traffic citation. The communication was great as he walked me through my options and what to expect with my court date and plea deal. 10/10 service. Highly recommended. Thanks again, Paul. Ryan H.2024-11-04Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Paul was very professional, sharp dressed and clearly a notch above most in the courtroom. He understood my plight and refused to be bullied. Knows the law to a T....I'm keeping him on speed dial. I think u will trust him too. Scorpion Solar2024-10-31Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. BEYOND satisfied with the services & representation! The communication & efforts have been above & BEYOND! Amazing price as well for a minor traffic hiccup. 11/10 recommend & prefer this firm for any future occurrences!!! Very transparent, & puts in the effort to help you!!! Zak Green2024-10-19Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. If you are needing a lawyer in Rockford or the surrounding areas this is the guy you need to get ahold of! Do not waste your time or money going to someone else.... From the very start Mr. Marriett was on top of his job. I called several lawyers before him and he was the first to thoroughly explain everything I needed to hear without even asking him to. The definition of a great lawyer. Each time we went to court he always let me know ahead of time either in person or via phone what the expectations or options would be going in. I highly recommend Paul Marriett if you are in need of a lawyer! Kelli2024-10-17Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Explained everything well. Kept us informed. I'm glad we found him. bruce paulson2024-10-16Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I am very late on sharing my feedback only because I’m google illiterate. Attorney Merriett did a very smart excellent job for me and not real expensive considering how stupid I was to get in trouble . Thank you! For all your professionalism! Bruce P. Austin “i like trains” Arvey2024-10-09Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great service and a reliable lawyer. I'm glad we got him instead of getting anyone else. :)
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- Address: 101 N Wacker Drive, Suite 100B, Chicago, IL 60606 Get Directions
- Driving Directions: If you’re traveling from The Loop, head north on Wacker Drive. Our office is between Lake and Randolph Streets, easily accessible from I-90 and I-94.
- Parking Options: Convenient parking is available at nearby garages, such as the Wacker & Monroe Garage, and there are metered spaces along N Wacker Drive.
- Landmarks Nearby: Our office is just steps from the Chicago Riverwalk and close to The Loop, making it a convenient location for visitors.
Contact Us
Chicago Injury Lawyers
101 N Wacker Drive, Suite 100B
Chicago, IL 60606
Phone: (312) 261-5656
Email: contact@chicagoinjurylawyer.com
Hours: 24/7
ATV Injury FAQs — Ottawa-IL
What if I weren’t wearing a helmet?
You can still file a claim, though your compensation may be reduced under comparative fault rules.
Can I sue the trail operator or landowner?
Yes, if the trail was poorly maintained, unmarked, or contained hazards the owner failed to address.
Can I file a lawsuit if my child was injured on an ATV?
Absolutely. Parents or guardians can bring claims for minors, and child cases receive careful legal attention.
How much does it cost to hire your firm?
Nothing up front. We offer free consultations and only get paid if you win.
How long does a claim take?
Many settle in under a year, but more complex or contested cases may take longer. We’ll advise you throughout.