Safety warning after holiday quad bike accidents
ABTA has issued a warning to holidaymakers about the risks of hiring quad bikes on holiday this summer.
It said in Greece alone there have been five incidents involving holidaymakers and quad bikes since June.
Most recently, an 18-year-old man suffered a fractured skull and lost his sight in one eye in a quad bike accident.
Nikki White, ABTA director of destinations and sustainability, said: "Quad biking can be a fun and memorable holiday experience as part of an off-road excursion with a reputable company. However, it can also be extremely high risk to hire a quad bike as a means of transport to get around resorts and to use on main roads.
"They may look easy and fun to drive but the reality is they are powerful vehicles that demand driving expertise and proper protection to be used safely."
The association also advised agents to make their customers aware that many standard insurance policies specifically exclude cover for quad bike usage, for drivers and passengers.
It said organised trips with a reputable provider the best option.
Other tips include:
– Always wear a protective helmet
– Make sure that you are provided with the appropriate training to operate the vehicle safely
– Check that the vehicle is in good condition – and do not ride it if you have any concerns
– Watch your speed
– Do not allow anyone to ride pillion.
Bev
Editor in chief Bev Fearis has been a travel journalist for 25 years. She started her career at Travel Weekly, where she became deputy news editor, before joining Business Traveller as deputy editor and launching the magazine’s website. She has also written travel features, news and expert comment for the Guardian, Observer, Times, Telegraph, Boundless and other consumer titles and was named one of the top 50 UK travel journalists by the Press Gazette.
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