Stay upright: Keeping safe on ATVs and Side-by-Sides

There’s nothing quite like tearing through the bush or tackling farm chores with an ATV or Side-by-Side (SXS for short). But let’s be real – these machines aren’t toys, and when things go pear-shaped, they go pear-shaped fast. So, let’s talk about SXS and ATV safety.

Why we need to talk about SXS and ATV safety

Data from the National Coronial Information System (NCIS) shows that every single fatal SXS accident in Australia involved someone not following safety protocols. And sadly, one in four fatalities was a child under the age of 15… let that sink in. That’s not a statistic anyone wants to see grow.

After a string of tragic accidents over the December to January holiday period, the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI), is urging riders to take SXS and ATV safety seriously. Their message? Follow the safety guidelines, wear the right gear, and don’t take shortcuts.

According to FCAI Chief Executive Tony Weber, ignoring basic SXS and ATV safety rules is a recipe for disaster:

“It is especially important to supervise younger riders and ensure they only ride age-appropriate vehicles and wear appropriate safety equipment. Older drivers should also review safety protocols and consider the operating conditions before using these vehicles.”

Here’s a less formal translation: Know your limits, don’t let kids ride vehicles they can’t handle, and don’t assume experience makes you invincible. SXSs and ATVs can handle rough terrain, but they can’t handle reckless riders.

The big no-nos that lead to fatalities

According to data from the National Coronial Information System (NCIS), these are the big no-nos that have led to fatalities when it comes to SXS and ATV safety:

• Not wearing seatbelts – You wouldn’t drive a car unbelted, so why do it in an SXS?
• Removing doors and nets – That’s what stops you from being flung out like a rag doll.
• No helmet – Every recorded SXS fatality where helmet use was noted? Not a single person was wearing one.
• Kids under 15 riding adult-size machines – One in four fatalities was a child under 15.

The basics of staying safe

There’s no rocket science here. Just common sense.

ATV safety 101

• Riders must be 16+ to operate an adult-size ATV – Kids on big machines? Bad idea.
• Wear a helmet, eye protection, and proper gear – No, a cap and sunnies won’t cut it.
• No passengers on a single-seat ATV – If it was meant for two, it’d have two seats.
• Follow the manufacturer’s warnings – They actually know what they’re talking about.
• Don’t overload your ride – More weight means less control, especially on hills.

SXS safety 101

• Drivers should be 16+ and ideally hold a licence – These aren’t go-karts.
• Passengers need to fit properly – That means feet on the floor, seatbelt on, and holding the grab bar.
• One bum per seat and no passengers in the cargo tray – A ute isn’t a minivan, and neither is an SXS.
• Doors and nets stay closed – If they weren’t needed, they wouldn’t be there.
• Helmets aren’t optional – Your head isn’t replaceable.
• Stay off sealed roads – These things are built for dirt, not drag races.
• Don’t drink and drive – Seems obvious, yet here we are (obviously this applies to ATV safety as well).

Another point to consider

Here’s a point that often gets overlooked when it comes to SXS and ATV safety: they can start fires! Yep, those engines get hot, and parking them in dry grass is a recipe for disaster. Keep them clear of flammable material unless you fancy an unplanned bushfire.

Why SXSs are replacing ATVs

You would have already noticed that ATVs are harder to come by. This is because ATVs have been phasing out in Australia ever since the government mandated Crush Protection Devices (CPDs) on new models. Major manufacturers didn’t agree with the rule and bailed from the market, leaving SXSs to fill the gap. Unlike ATVs, SXSs already come with built-in safety features like seatbelts, roll cages, and doors – but none of that helps if you don’t use them properly.

Final word: Respect the machine

ATVs and SXSs are bloody good at what they do, but they don’t forgive stupidity. If you wouldn’t drive your car without a seatbelt, let your kid ride a motorbike that’s too big, or go four-wheel-driving without considering terrain and load, then don’t do it with an ATV or SXS either.

For more info on SXS and ATV safety, visit www.sidebysidesafety.com.au.

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