The Court of Appeals of Georgia has unanimously reversed a trial court’s May 2010 decision in favor of plaintiffs and ordered judgment for Yamaha in McTaggart vs. Yamaha, a case involving an accident on a Yamaha Rhino. The Court of Appeals’ decision means that courts in all nine cases that have gone to trial have rejected plaintiffs’ claims and found in favor of Yamaha.
According to the company, the Rhino is a safe and useful off-road vehicle when driven responsibly, and has won virtually every "first in class" award and top safety ratings in independent reviews since its introduction. Yamaha said it will continue to stand behind the Rhino and will vigorously defend their product.
"The testimony and evidence presented during the trial showed that this unfortunate incident had nothing to do with the design of the product," said Van Holmes, ATV/SxS public relations manager for Yamaha. "The incident illustrates the importance of following the safety guidelines posted on the vehicle and the owner’s manual. The Rhino is a safe and useful off-road vehicle when driven responsibly. Drivers and passengers should wear helmets, protective gear including foot wear, and the vehicle’s three-point seat belts at all times."
Holmes continued: "Yamaha’s top priority is the safety of our customers, and we pride ourselves in the safety and quality of our products."
