Quad bikes (four-wheeled motorbikes) can be fun and useful, but you need to be aware of safety issues before riding them for recreation or work.
To improve your safety when using a quad bike, you should:
- undertake a quad bike training course
- always wear a helmet and ride at a safe speed
- always keep the quad bike well maintained and tyres correctly inflated, according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Do not:
- allow riders aged under 16 to use adult quad bikes
- carry passengers
- carry heavy loads or overload a quad bike. They become more unstable and may roll, causing fatal crush injuries
- operate on unfamiliar terrain, rough terrain or steep slopes, especially when carrying cargo or towing
- exceed towing limits
- operate a quad bike while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
In 2011, 23 quad bike deaths were reported across Australia, including four children aged under 12. Six of these deaths were in Victoria, including two children under 12.
An average of 85 Victorians are admitted to hospital each year with injuries from quad bike accidents. About a third of those injured are aged between 10 and 24.
Last updated: 12/02/2013