Union County is home to outdoor adventure and agriculture, but also hidden dangers. From farmland paths to recreational trails in the Shawnee National Forest, the risk of an ATV rollover or collision is high. Many riders in this area—farmers, teens, tourists, and weekend thrill-seekers—face not only physical trauma but emotional and financial setbacks.
We understand the reality: families in Anna or Cobden may not have immediate access to specialized medical care, and missing work can mean missed income. We guide you through the legal process with care, speed, and confidence.
Learn more about our broader vehicle accident legal services.
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.
Where Accidents Happen Most in Union County, IL
In Union County, ATV crashes frequently occur in locations with natural hazards and high recreational use:
Key danger zones include:
- Trail of Tears State Forest – A frequent site for off-road adventures that often result in rollovers and collisions.
- Shawnee National Forest boundaries – Unmarked trails, steep slopes, and mixed-use paths present significant risks.
- Cobden orchards and farmland – Where seasonal use of ATVs for agriculture can lead to unregulated operation and accidents.
- Jonesboro rural backroads – Narrow, low-visibility roads with little enforcement and minimal signage.
These locations pose risks due to:
- Poor lighting and trail maintenance
- Wildlife presence
- Loose gravel and mud
- Steep hills and blind turns
- Underage or unlicensed operation
Knowing these localized risks allows us to investigate effectively and position your case for success.
Steps to Take After an ATV Accident
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed after an accident. But acting quickly protects your health and your case.
1. Get Medical Attention
Injuries may be internal or delayed. Visit:
- Union County Hospital in Anna
- SIH Urgent Care centers in nearby counties
You can also learn prevention tips on the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s ATV Safety Page.
2. Report the Crash
- For public land accidents, contact the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR)
- For any incident, file a report with the Union County Sheriff’s Office
3. Collect and Preserve Evidence
- Photograph the ATV, trail, and injuries
- Keep your damaged clothing and helmet
- Write down what happened and collect witness names
4. Speak with an Attorney
Early legal intervention means stronger evidence, quicker claims, and fewer mistakes. We act fast so you don’t have to.
Common Injuries in ATV Crashes
Injuries from ATV accidents can be life-altering. Our clients in Jonesboro, Dongola, and other parts of Union County often deal with:
- Traumatic brain injuries from lack of helmet protection
- Fractures and broken limbs due to ATV flips
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Internal bleeding that requires emergency surgery
- Facial injuries and deep lacerations from trees, rocks, or ejection
Recovery may require:
- Surgery and follow-up appointments
- Physical therapy
- Travel to hospitals in Marion or Carbondale for specialized care
We ensure these costs are included in your compensation demand.
Legal Considerations in Illinois
If you were hurt in an ATV accident, Illinois law gives you options. Here’s what matters:
- Negligence: Did someone act carelessly? A reckless rider, poorly maintained trail, or defective ATV could make someone liable.
- Comparative Fault: Under 735 ILCS 5/2-1116, you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault, as long as you’re under 51%.
- Time Limits: Don’t wait. Illinois sets a 2-year statute of limitations for most personal injury claims.
- Product Liability: Faulty brakes, unsafe design, or lack of warnings? You may have a case against a manufacturer.
Get the facts by reading more on our ATV accident lawyer services.
For a free legal consultation, call 312-261-5656Why Work With Chicago Injury Lawyer?
We’re not just legal advocates—we’re partners in recovery. When you choose us, you’re hiring more than just a firm. You’re hiring local knowledge, compassionate guidance, and a results-driven team that understands the nuances of Union County and its legal system.
Our team brings:
- Deep familiarity with Union County roads, such as Old Highway 51, Lick Creek Road, and narrow trails near Trail of Tears State Forest.
- Proven experience dealing with insurance adjusters who often minimize the value of ATV accident claims, especially when they occur on private land.
- A personal, people-first approach. We break down complex legal processes into straightforward steps so that clients from rural farming communities to recreational trail riders can understand and feel in control.
We’ve helped:
- A Cobden farm worker thrown from an ATV used on orchard hills, suffering broken ribs and a punctured lung.
- A Jonesboro teen who collided with another rider on a wooded trail, requiring multiple surgeries and long-term rehab.
- A visitor to Alto Pass facing spinal injuries after hitting an unmarked slope near Bald Knob, with no visible warning signage.
Why do people trust us?
Because we:
- Coordinate medical evaluations and transportation for those unable to travel
- Gather detailed crash scene evidence, even in remote areas
- Handle communication with insurers, hospitals, and law enforcement
- Aggressively negotiate for full compensation, not just the first offer
We know Union County. We know ATV law. And we know how to get results that matter to real people like you.
Serving All of Union County
We proudly represent ATV injury victims throughout Union County, offering local insight and tailored legal guidance based on each area’s unique characteristics.
- Anna – Known for its scenic wooded routes near Lick Creek Road, this area is popular with recreational riders and weekend visitors. We’ve handled several cases here involving ATV flips on unpaved terrain.
- Jonesboro – With ATV activity along North Main Street and near the Union County Courthouse, Jonesboro’s backroads see a mix of utility and leisure ATV usage. Our team is familiar with traffic flow and accident-prone spots in this jurisdiction.
- Cobden – As a farming hub, Cobden has hilly orchards and private trails where ATV use is essential for agricultural work. We’ve assisted farm workers injured during daily tasks involving unstable ground and equipment defects.
- Dongola – Accidents here often occur near Old Highway 51, especially on private woodland trails. These rural routes may lack signage or safety markers, increasing rollover risks.
- Alto Pass – Nestled near Bald Knob Cross and the Trail of Tears Scenic Overlook, this high-elevation region poses unique challenges with its steep, gravelly slopes and limited visibility.
We also support riders hurt in high-risk outdoor destinations like:
- Mill Creek Trail System – A complex mix of terrain where visibility and maintenance vary.
- Giant City State Park – A popular adventure site with occasional overcrowding and trail-sharing risks.
- Forest Service trails near Wolf Lake – Remote locations where delayed rescue responses can complicate injury severity.
Wherever your accident happened in Union County, we bring local knowledge and legal precision to every 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. :)
Get Directions to Our Law Office
Visit us in Chicago for a free consultation
- 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
Questions? We’ve Got Answers
Do I really need a lawyer for an ATV crash?
Yes—especially in Union County, where evidence can disappear fast, and insurance companies often deny ATV-related claims.
Does not wearing a helmet affect my claim?
It could reduce the value slightly, but it doesn’t disqualify you. We’ll work to maximize what you can still recover.
What if a friend was driving the ATV?
We can file through their insurance, not their personal assets. We handle this delicately.
What if the accident was fatal?
We represent families in wrongful death cases related to fatal ATV crashes. You deserve justice.