ATV Rollover Lawsuits Affect Yamaha Profits

Last month, the Los Angeles Times published an article entitled “Kicking Up Sand in Side-By-Sides” highlighting the growing popularity of “side-by-side” all terrain vehicles (ATVs). The article refers to the Yamaha Rhino as, “the iPod of the recreational side-by-side set.” The side-by-side design is becoming increasingly popular among ATV enthusiasts, particularly among couples and those with children. The article gives conflicting information about the safety of the side-by-side vehicles; it says they are “…generally perceived as less dangerous than ATVs, or quads.” However, in another section of the article covering safety tips, it mentions that “they have a much higher center of gravity (especially the four-seaters) and can tip and roll more easily.” For further information on the dangers of the Yamaha Rhino, click here.

Also in the news…Yamaha is posting it’s first profit drop in eight years. According to Bloomberg News, the company’s U.S. unit is taking a one-time charge of 15.5 billion yen to cover the potential costs of lawsuits involving the Yamaha Rhino. 15.5 billion yen is approximately $145,000,000. To view the Bloomberg article, click here. To view an informative article about Yamaha’s response (or lack thereof) to design problems with the Rhino, click here.

Thanks for reading. If you have any comments or questions, please leave a response to this posting. If you or a loved one have been injured in an accident involving a Yamaha Rhino ATV, please contact us for a free, confidential evaluation of your case.