ABTA Warn Holidaymakers Against Hiring Mopeds and Quad Bikes

The Travel Association is "strongly advising" holidaymakers against hiring mopeds while abroad

ABTA – The Travel Association is strongly advising holidaymakers and other travellers to think twice before hiring mopeds whilst overseas, and to only ride quad bikes as part of an organised off-road excursion.

ABTA Members reported to the Association 50 serious quad bike accidents and 18 moped accidents in 2018.

So far in 2019, ABTA Members have reported that six customers have been involved in quad bike accidents on the road, including one fatality, and five moped incidents. As these figures represent just those cases involving customers on holiday with ABTA Members, ABTA believes the total number of accidents involving UK holidaymakers will be even higher.

Quad bikes have become increasingly popular in destinations such as Greece, Cyprus, Cape Verde & Turkey. Hiring mopeds is also a common activity for British travellers visiting countries such as Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam.

Riders often have little experience of these vehicles and don’t wear the appropriate safety clothing, in addition road surfaces are not always well-maintained, making accidents much more likely. Even at slow speeds, injuries can be serious and seemingly more minor injuries such as grazes and cuts, can result in a ruined holiday,

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

It is also reminding holidaymakers of the limitations and exclusions of standard travel insurance policies – many of which will not cover accidents from quad bikes and mopeds, as they are regarded as risky activities. Every year lack of insurance cover results in injured holidaymakers having to pay very high medical bills out of their own pockets.

People could also face additional expenses from the fact that insurance sold by hire companies is often only third-party, which only covers the cost of damage to another vehicle. Any damage sustained to the rental vehicle may need to be paid for by the customer, who may face arrest if they do not pay and the hire company decides to press charges.

Nikki White, ABTA Director of Destinations and Sustainability said: “Every year people suffer serious injuries or worse after hiring mopeds or quad bikes while on holiday. The freedom they offer can be very tempting but often riders have very little experience, and this is made even more dangerous by their lack of knowledge of local driving laws and customs and poor quality roads.

“Most standard insurance policies will not cover accidents, leaving holidaymakers at risk for high medical bills and other associated costs. ABTA’s advice is to avoid hiring mopeds and only ride a quad bike if part of a properly supervised excursion. There are always alternatives such as hiring a car, taking a taxi or using public transport.”

Julia Longbottom, Director of Consular Services at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office said: “Our consular teams around the world help a number of British people abroad every year affected by accidents on quad bikes and mopeds.  Many of these have involved serious injuries and even fatalities.

“It’s essential to check that you are fully covered by your travel insurance if you do decide to hire a moped or quad bike.  We also advise that people check the vehicle is in good condition before hiring it, always wear a helmet and avoid putting themselves in a situation where they could get hurt. Accidents can and do happen, even if you’re a careful driver.”

ABTA’s advice on quad bikes and moped safety

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 public roads
  • Check your 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
  • Be aware that standard travel insurance may not cover riding a quad bike.

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 may not cover riding a moped.

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