Mason Township, MI (September 9, 2026) – Two men were injured after a side-by-side ATV overturned on Sunday night, September 6, in a field near U.S. 12 and Calvin Center Road in Mason Township.
The Cass County Sheriff’s Office responded to the crash shortly after 9:30 p.m. Investigators determined that 20-year-old Andrew Brady of Warsaw, Indiana, was driving the side-by-side when it overturned while he was making a right turn.
Brady and his 18-year-old passenger, Andrew Contreras, also of Warsaw, were both injured and transported to Elkhart General Hospital for treatment. Everyone involved was wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash.
Our thoughts are with both men injured in this crash and their loved ones. We wish both injured individuals a full and speedy recovery.
What Should ATV Riders Know About Turning Safely?
ATVs and side-by-side vehicles can become unstable during turns, particularly when a turn is made at excessive speed or on uneven terrain. Riders should reduce speed before entering a turn and avoid abrupt steering movements that can shift the vehicle’s weight. Understanding how the vehicle responds to changes in direction can help riders maintain control.
Terrain also plays an important role in off-road vehicle stability. Ruts, slopes, loose soil, rocks, and other uneven surfaces can affect an ATV’s handling during a maneuver. Riders should adjust their speed to the conditions and remain alert for changes in the surface ahead.
Seat belts and other restraints are important safety features on side-by-side vehicles because they help keep occupants inside the protective structure during a rollover. Riders should use the restraints provided by the manufacturer and make sure they are properly secured before operating the vehicle. Helmets and other protective equipment can provide additional protection during an overturn.
