Hidalgo County Personal Injury Attorney J. Gonzalez
by Benjamin Treviño | March 31st, 2026 | ATV Accident, Blog, Personal Injury
What does Texas law say about the operation of all-terrain-vehicles (ATVs)?
By: Benjamin Treviño
Operating an ATV on a public road or highway in Texas is generally illegal. It is classified as a misdemeanor, punishable by fines ranging from $1.00 to $500.
Violations can also result in the vehicle being impounded. Exceptions exist for agricultural work, specific law enforcement use, or limited road crossing.
Operating ATVs on Texas public land
ATV operators on Texas public land (where allowed) must complete a Texas OHV safety course for public land use.
Gear: Helmets and eye protection are required.
Passenger Rules: Passengers are generally not allowed unless the ATV was specifically designed by the manufacturer to carry one.
Violation: Violations can result in a Class C misdemeanor with fines up to $200.
Texas ATV Age Regulations
Children under age 14 must be supervised by a parent/guardian or authorized adult when operating an ATV on public land.
While there is no strict minimum age to operate an ATV on private property, safety guidelines recommend that children under 16 avoid adult-sized machines greater than 90cc’s engine displacement.
90cc models are a popular, safe, and controllable stepping stone before moving up to larger youth models (110cc-125cc). Adult-sized machines (18 and older), can range up to 976 cc (rounded to 1000).
The J. Gonzalez Law Firm is your best choice for Texas ATV accidents
The J. Gonzalez Law Firm has fought for the rights of ATV crash victims for more than 25 years.
Clients endorse J. Gonzalez and his team for their dedicated representation, and for the firm’s reputation for getting outstanding results.
J. Gonzalez offers a free initial consultation with no obligation. You’ll pay nothing unless we get you the settlement you deserve.
Contact the J. Gonzalez Law Firm now to schedule a meeting. You can reach them via this website or by calling 1-800-CAR-CRASH.
Youth in critical condition following ATV crash near Edinburg
By: Benjamin Treviño
A 12-year-old child was reported in critical condition following an ATV crash near Edinburg.
According to the Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office, the incident happened March 17 in the 8300 block of South Tower Road.
“Our thoughts and prayers remain with the child and their family during this incredibly difficult time,” the sheriff’s office stated.
The release added that the crash investigation was ongoing.
Hidalgo County Sheriff J.E. “Eddie” Guerra urged parents and guardians to take ATV safety seriously.
“ATVs are powerful machines and are not toys,” Guerra said. “A moment of inattention can lead to life-changing consequences.”
“We ask all families to prioritize safety, ensure proper supervision, and require protective gear every time. Many ATV-related injuries involving children are preventable,” Guerra added.