The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has declared that the safety of quad bikes sold in Australia has been substantially improved after increased safety features and improved design standards were introduced by law earlier this month.
New and second-hand imported general use quad bikes sold in Australia must now meet the second stage of the mandatory Quad Bike Safety Standard, requiring the fitting of operator-protection devices and minimum stability requirements.
Deputy Chair of the ACCC, Mick Keogh said quad bike accidents were the leading cause of death and injury on Australian farms and the mandatory safety standard would be critical in saving lives.
“Consumer law regulators will be conducting another round of surveillance to monitor compliance with the quad bike safety requirements,” Mr Keogh said.
“Suppliers have had a two-year transition period to prepare for the new requirements and those who are still not compliant risk enforcement action,” he said.
Mr Keogh said when it came to vehicle safety issues, there was no single solution.
“Safe riding precautions remain extremely important,” he said.
“Quad bike owners should always wear helmets and the right safety gear, complete the necessary training, and never let children ride adult bikes.
“Consumers and businesses can make a complaint to the ACCC if they believe they have seen a quad bike offered for sale, or have been sold a quad bike that does not comply with the requirements of the safety standard.”
Mr Keogh said separately, all participants in the supply chain for consumer goods were required to report serious injuries associated with the goods within two days of becoming aware of a reportable incident.
