A 21-year-old suffered horrific injuries while quad biking in Greece – leading some to question the safety of the popular holiday sport.
British tourist Holly Thomas was left bloodied and bruised after being knocked off her quad bike on the island of Zante. Holly’s accident follows a slew of quad bike injuries abroad, with travel insurers warning tourists to check their policies before hiring any type of vehicle.
Natalie Ball, managing director of Comparetravelinsurance.com.au, says that quad biking, along with a range of other adventure activities, is not covered by all travel insurers.
“Quad biking is a popular adventure activity that is often booked last minute, usually by groups of young travellers. It is also an activity that many insurers exclude,” she said. “Whether it’s a two-wheeled vehicle or four, it’s important to take a minute and consider whether you would be covered if disaster strikes.”
Ball recommends that travellers think twice before partaking in adventure activities such as quad biking, particularly in South-East Asia, where roads are unfamiliar and driving standards can vary.
“Consider other activities and modes of transport. The cost of an accident abroad can be ruinous.”
Ball says that tourists planning to hire scooters and motorbikes should also check their coverage.
“Scooters are a common way to get around when holidaying abroad but it’s essential to understand the risks involved when riding on foreign roads along with any restrictions that apply to your travel insurance,” she said.
Ball notes that many Australians are unaware that not all insurers automatically cover the use of a scooter, motorcycle or moped, and strict requirements can apply.
“Always check to see if your insurance covers you to ride a scooter. Generally, you will only be covered if you have an Australian motorbike license as well as an international driving permit.”
While a valid standard driver’s license alone might be enough to cover you to hire a motorbike, Ball says this only really applies to low powered scooters.
“Most Australian travel insurers require you to carry an Australian motorbike license for a scooter over 50cc, and very often an IDP as well,” she advised.
Quad bike safety tips
- Wear a helmet: Your brain is important, so protect it. At a minimum, a helmet can reduce your risk of a serious brain injury. Whether it’s compulsory or not, make sure you wear one.
- Go with a pro: Don’t just hire a quad bike from anyone. Rent from a reputable, licensed commercial operator who will be required to complete relevant safety checks and provide appropriate training.
- Be sensible: You may consider yourself experienced, but injury statistics say it all. No matter how confident you are on a quad bike, take extra care when riding overseas.
- Know the rules: Whether you’re hiring a quad or a car overseas, remember that rules differ greatly around the globe. Be vigilant when riding in an unknown area and avoid dangerous terrain.
- Get travel insurance: Don’t assume that your policy covers you for riding a quad bike, moped or motorbike automatically. Do your research and buy a policy that adequately covers your planned adventure activities.
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