Fatigue has emerged as a significant factor in quad bike accidents on New Zealand farms, prompting renewed calls for farmers to manage workloads and prioritise safety measures.
The warning comes as insurers and safety advocates highlight the risks associated with overwork and distraction during high-pressure periods.
As part of FMG’s Under Pressure quad safety campaign, Te Kopuru farmer Chris Biddles shared his experience of a serious quad bike accident, which he attributed to exhaustion.
“I was really tired, and I knew I was tired, and because of that, I made a dumb decision. I was riding the quad along a ridge to the safe place I usually go down, but I went past it and tried another place. As soon as I put the nose of the quad over the hill, I knew I was stuffed,” he said.
The quad rolled, launching him forward and landing on his ankle, causing severe injuries, including a crushed ankle and broken shoulder.
FMG reported that quad bike incidents occur frequently, with one claim for a rollover or accident lodged every day.
Over the past five years, the insurer has handled 2,000 claims related to quad bikes, totalling more than $8.1 million.
The data also revealed specific patterns in these incidents. Quads less than two years old make up half of all rollover claims, even though they represent only 25% of insured vehicles.
FMG advises farmers to familiarise themselves with new machines, as handling can differ from older models.
Fatigue and distraction during mustering are also key contributors to quad accidents, accounting for over 20% of reported incidents.
Farmers are encouraged to stop and assess their surroundings if their focus shifts, such as when monitoring livestock or terrain.
Additionally, FMG recommends using the park brake whenever dismounting, as one in five accidents result from quads rolling away after being left unattended.
Meanwhile, Ōtorohanga dairy farmer Michael Woodward described his quad accident as a wake-up call for prioritising safety.
Two summers ago, while shifting bulls before leaving for a family event, Woodward hit a rut on a hillside, causing the quad to flip and crush his legs.
The accident left Woodward with ongoing leg numbness and back issues, while recovery put added pressure on his farm team.
Since the incident, he has implemented crush protection on his quad and adjusted his approach to safety for himself, staff, and his children.
Woodward’s experience highlighted the importance of planning and recognising the risks posed by fatigue and equipment misuse.
As summer approaches, FMG’s quad safety campaign is reminding farmers to implement simple safety measures, including regular pre-ride checks and fatigue management, to reduce the risk of injury.
