ABTA is advising holidaymakers and other travellers to think twice before hiring mopeds or quad bikes whilst on holiday.

People are being urged to remember that while these vehicles may be fun to drive, they can also leave riders very vulnerable on the road. 

It’s also important that holidaymakers are aware of the limitations and exclusions of standard travel insurance policies, many of which will not cover accidents from quad bikes and mopeds, leaving seriously injured holidaymakers facing unaffordable medical bills.

If you are planning to hire a quad bike, here are some tips for staying safe on holiday this summer.

Top tips: quad bike safety

While quad bikes may be fun to drive, they are also powerful pieces of machinery that can be extremely dangerous.

• Stick to enjoying quad biking as part of an organised off-road excursion and don’t use a quad bike on main roads.
• Check your travel insurance – you may not be covered to hire a quad bike.
• Always wear a protective helmet.
• Always wear appropriate clothing and footwear.
• 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.

Mopeds

ABTA is advising anyone travelling abroad that there will always be safer alternatives to hiring mopeds, including hiring a car, taking a taxi or using public transport.

Be aware that standard travel insurance will not cover riding a moped.