An American researcher providing evidence at a coronial inquest into ATV-related deaths has reinforced the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries' (FCAI) position that the safety benefits of wearing a helmet are more effective than the fitment of crush-protection devices (CPD).
Speaking at the Hobart inquest into seven ATV fatalities, Scott Kebschull from Dynamic Research Inc said hundreds of hours of computer simulations with all-terrain vehicles had left him with no doubt that wearing a helmet while operating an ATV is the single most effective safety device for ATV use.
While the Victorian government supports the fitment and use of CPDs, the FCAI disagrees with the advice, saying there's been too little research to scientifically prove their benefits. In fact, the FCAI believes the CPDs could cause more harm to a rider in the event of an accident, another point mimicked by Kebschull at the yet-to-be completed inquest.
"The CPD can inhibit separation between rider and machine, it could strike the rider, or change the dynamics of the rollover, causing more injuries," he said.
The FCAI has published a 5-Star Safety Guide for what it says is the safest evidence-based ATV practices. The document can be found at www.atvsafety.com.au.