Tips for Staying Safe on ATV’s (Quad Bikes)

Tips for Staying Safe on ATV’s (Quad Bikes)

The Motor Industry Association is reminding owners of all-terrain vehicles (often referred colloquially to as quad bikes) that known safety practices and training will help keep all-terrain vehicle (ATV) users safe while using their vehicles.

With a number of recent fatalities from the use of ATV’s in the work place and by recreational users, it is timely to remind users that some basic safety practices will greatly reduce the likelihood of being involved in an accident.

MIA Chief Executive David Crawford said “it is important that when using an ATV, users follow known safety practices such as wearing a helmet, not using the ATV for tasks or in environments which it is not suited, ensure it is well maintained, not overloading it and not using an ATV under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Importantly, before riding an ATV for the first time, all users should undertake appropriate training in their use”

“Users should also be conscious that many ATVs are single rider only vehicles. Carrying passengers, particularly children, even for a short distance can be dangerous” said Mr Crawford.

Mr Crawford said “within the farming community some prefer not wearing a helmet. However, Worksafe NZ figures that per injury cost of claims involving ATVs, where the rider is reported wearing a helmet the average claim cost is $590, while the per injury cost for riders not reported as wearing a helmet is $13,300. All manufacturers recommend helmets should be worn at all times when using an ATV.”

The MIA stresses that children under the age of 16, whether doing farm work or riding recreationally, must only ride specifically designed and labelled age appropriate ATVs, under adult supervision, and never be allowed to ride adult sized ATVs.

ENDS

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