MIA supports call for ATV safety review

The Motor Industry Association says it would welcome the opportunity to work with users and officials to review guidance on the safe use of ATVs (all terrain vehicles) and ROVs (recreational off-highway vehicles).

This follows a call from the Coroner for a cross-sector working party to consider the introduction of a mandatory safety standard.

MIA chief executive David Crawford says the industry would like to see wider agreement of safe operational practices around the use of ATVs.

He says it is vital that all farm and recreational vehicles, such as quad bikes, are ridden by experienced well trained riders and the MIA would strongly favour looking at some form of subsidised rider training.

“While quad bikes in particular are very useful farm and recreational vehicles, they need to be used in accordance with manufacturers’ recommendations.

“There are some simple and clear rules that all users need to be aware of.

“For instance, riders need to know where and when they are safe to ride in terms of appropriate terrain and conditions.

“It’s important to wear a helmet at all times and children should not be allowed to ride adult-size ATVs.

“As well, all ATVs need to be well maintained by qualified mechanics.

“However, we would not support any moves to install roll over device protection devices (or ROPs) on quad bikes because of the potential to interfere with the balance, structure and overall safety of the bikes.

David Crawford says that all farm and recreational vehicles and tools have the potential to be dangerous in wrong or inexperienced hands or when used inappropriately.

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