Coroner pushes commonsense approach on ATV safety

The Queensland Deputy State Coroner’s recommendations on ATV safety are strongly focussed on the promotion and take-up of known safety practices, which help keep ATV users safer when riding their vehicles.

Welcoming Deputy State Coroner Lock’s recommendations, the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industry (FCAI) Chief Executive Tony Weber said the FCAI was pleased that the Queensland Coroner had looked closely at the range of issues that impact on ATV safety, including the serious matter of children on adult-sized ATVs. 

"It appears the Coroner is firm in his recommendation that children be kept off adult-sized ATVs. Users should note the manufacturer’s warnings that clearly state adult-sized ATVs should not be used by persons under the age of 16; and for most ATVs, the vehicles are single-rider only — meaning adults should not have children or anyone else accompany them on the vehicle," Mr Weber said.

"The FCAI continues to advocate for government, media and consumer attention to be paid to the responsible use of ATVs, noting the vehicles are highly-useful pieces of farm equipment — they are not toys."

Mr Weber said the FCAI actively promoted that before using ATVs, riders should undertake training, read the owner’s manual and watch the safety video provided. Users must also wear an approved helmet, not use the ATV for tasks or in environments which it is not suited, and not use an ATV under the influence of drugs or alcohol. 

"The FCAI strongly supports the QLD Coroner’s recommendations to mandate training and the use of approved helmets for all ATV users. We also strongly support the Coroner’s recommendations to keep children off adult-sized ATVs and to prohibit the carrying of passengers on single-seat ATVs," Mr Weber said.

The Australian ATV industry says it is keen to work with regulators to develop and implement policy and projects that can make the Coroner's recommendations work. This includes mandating helmets, and that workers using ATVs be trained and wear protective clothing.

In addition to this, the industry is working on a number of other positive initiatives that will support the Coroner’s recommendations and aim to further improve safety. These initiatives include e-learning and enhanced dealer training.