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The Yamaha Rhino; It really IS quite a surprising vehicle indeed!

The Yamaha Rhino; part utility vehicle, part all-terrain vehicle, part 4x4,  Yamaha calls it the “Amazing Rhino Utility Vehicle”.  No matter what you call it, the truth is that it is an amazingly dangerous motorized vehicle that has caused many deaths, injuries and permanent disabilities!

 Yamaha’s Rhino website states, “This vehicle will really surprise you at what it can do!”  This seems to be a statement of fact, because what it can do is very surprising – it rolls over and in a surprising easily and deadly manner.

 Since the introduction of these deadly machines in 2003, thousands have died or have been severely injured when the “Amazing Rhino” rolls over. Severe head, brain and neck trauma often results from the roll over.  Crushing injuries that frequently result in amputations of arms, legs, fingers and permanent disabilities are caused by the roll overs in an alarming number.  Plus, data shows that the younger the person is that is in the vehicle when it rolls, the more likely hood of death being the end result.

 The problem with these “surprising” vehicles is in the design.  In short, they are top heavy.  They were designed with a high center of gravity, a narrow track width, small tires, and many other dangerous design flaws. Essentially, it appears they were built to roll over, or so one can only assume.  In addition, the Rhino has no padding on the high roll bar, there are no doors to keep legs and arms in as it rolls over, seat belts are poorly designed, and there is no handrail to grab on to.  This is a surprisingly dangerous vehicle!

 Yamaha denies that these vehicles are dangerous, yet recently the company has offered free doors and handrails to be installed in the Rhino.  Yamaha officials blame the drivers for erratic and careless driving, however; independent studies have shown them to roll over at speeds under 20 mph, on level ground, and under normal maneuvers, with adult drivers.

 This cute little 4x4 is not a toy nor is it a vehicle that I would recommend anyone own or ride in! 

If you have been injured in a Yamaha Rhino roll over accident, you will need an experienced lawyer to help you get justice and figure out the difficult insurance and legal world.  These “vehicles” do not fall under auto insurance requirements; they may be covered under a person’s homeowner insurance under certain conditions. Yamaha has been sued, in fact many lawsuits have been filed in many States against Yamaha, as product liability suits.  Feel free to give me a call if you would like more information. I and my experienced associates and staff have handled these type of cases and can lend you knowledgeable legal advice and support.

 Yamaha Rhino? These are not the type of surprises we need in life!