While useful, quad bikes – sometimes called four-wheeler bikes – are not safe for use on all terrains. These vehicles can be unstable and have been involved in a number of farm injuries and deaths, largely as a result of roll-over situations.
Always follow manufacturer’s instructions for vehicle use, wear a helmet and protective clothing when riding and ride in a responsible manner. Never allow children to play on or ride quad bikes. It is recommended that all quad bikes have an operator protective device (OPD) fitted.
Find out more about this topic on Better Health Channel.
View more Worksafe Quad Bike videos.
Fast facts:
- Quad bikes or all terrain vehicles (ATVs) are one of the most common causes of death on Australia farms.
- Prevent accidents by ensuring all riders are trained and follow safety precautions.
- Follow manufacturer’s guidelines if you carry extra loads like sprays, as they can affect the balance and stability on your bike.
- Consider a properly fitted roll over protection structure.
- Wear personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times when riding a quad bike.
References used for this topic
More information:
Farmsafe Australia
Safe use of Quads and Side by Side Vehicles on Australian Farms (2019)
WorkSafe Victoria
Quad bikes – a handbook for workplaces (2018) [PDF]
Quad bike safety app
Quad bikes risk assessment
Quad bikes – Reducing the risks
National Farmers Federation
Mythbuster: Crush Protection Devices [PDF]
ACCC Product Safety
Quad bikes guide
Research & reviews:
Journal of Agromedicine
A Qualitative Enquiry of On-Farm Rules About Quad Bikes (ATVs): How Rules Are Determined and Implemented at a Farm Level in Rural Australia (2024)
Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health
A descriptive review of quad‐related deaths in Australia (2011–20) (2022)
Traffic Injury Prevention
Injury mechanisms in fatal Australian quad bike incidents (2016)
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