ATV Safety Messages

Media Release

18 October 2012

ATV Safety Messages

“The latest ATV (quad bike) accidents, while incredibly tragic for those directly involved, are also very disappointing for the ATV industry,” said Mr Perry Kerr Chief Executive Officer of the Motor Industry Association – whose membership includes the official importers and distributors of new motorcycles including ATVs and UTVs.

“The industry has been promoting for at least the last 20 years the key points for the safe operation of an ATV. Last year the Department of Labour (now part of the Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment) commenced an education programme with the support of Federated Farmers, targeting the farming community” he said.

“The focus of this strategy is on the five basic safety messages of:-

Always wear a helmet,
Ensure riders are trained / experienced,
Don't let children under 16 ride adult ATVs,
Don't carry passengers,
Use the right vehicle for the job.”

“The MIA is encouraged to see this message is getting through to the farming sector however there are still farmers and parents who are not recognising their responsibilities. The MIA supports recent comments from the Chief Coroner, Judge Neil MacLean when he said, “I endorse the principle that kids and quad bikes don’t mix”.

Mr Kerr agreed, “adult ATVs are not toys and parents and guardians should not allow children under 16 to ride them under any circumstances. Every adult size ATV has labels attached clearly stating this age limit. There are small ATVs manufactured specifically for children and they should be restricted to riding these.”

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All ATVs imported into New Zealand by MIA members comply with the US Consumer Product Safety Commissions mandatory consumer product safety standard for ATVs: ANSI/SVIA-1-2010 American National Standard for Four – Wheel All – Terrain Vehicle Equipment Configuration and Performance Requirements. This standard was developed by the Speciality Vehicle Institute of America and includes specific approved requirements for pitch stability, operation (such as controls, braking performance and mechanical suspension) and limited speed capacities for all youth sized ATVs.

ENDS

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