Yamaha Rhino Rollover Lawsuits

Despite a ruling in favor of Yamaha last month, attorneys for the family of a 13-year-old boy killed when a Rhino UTV rolled over on him say they will continue their court battle.

"We feel we proved the Rhino was defective," said Troy Rafferty, attorney for the family of the decedent. "We're going to keep fighting until we prove it."

Texas Jury Finds for Yamaha

A jury in Orange, Texas, found that Yamaha was not to blame for the death of Forest Ray in 2007.

Mike Burleson, an employee of System Engineering & Laboratories testifying for the plaintiffs, supported the contention of Rhino critics that it overturns easily because it is too wide and too narrow, giving it a high center of gravity. He said rollovers can occur at speeds as low as 11.5 mph.

According to Rafferty, the boy was only driving at 14 to 17 mph before he was crushed under the overturning vehicle, while making a turn from a field onto a paved road.

Another criticism of the Rhino design is that its solid rear axle adds to its instability during a turn or a transition from a loose surface to a solid surface.

Improvements Offered, but No Recall

In actions that some say confirm the Rhino's problems, Yamaha has initiated two programs to make the UTV safer. The first, in 2007, added half-doors and additional handholds to new units, to help keep occupants inside the vehicle in accidents. The modifications were also offered free of charge for units already sold.

The second program, announced earlier this year, offers Rhino owners free installation of 2-inch spacers to each rear wheel, effectively widening the wheelbase, and the removal of an anti-sway bar.

Both programs are voluntary; neither has included a recall of the vehicles.

Yamaha Rhino rollover accident lawsuits are pending in several states. If you have a case, contact a defective products lawyer as soon as possible for a review of your claim.