Quads are fun! More and more quads are being used on German roads. The versatility and robustness of the all-terrain vehicle (ATV) speak in its favour. However, the lightweight construction of the quad bike as a kind of hybrid between a motorbike and a car also leads to an increased safety risk. In our guide, we explain what you need to know in case you are involved in a quad bike accident.
- Quads or ATVs are particularly well designed for off-road use.
- Due to the reduced technology and safety measures, quad bikes are particularly prone to accidents.
- Quad bike accidents are often so-called single-vehicle accidents. This means that the quad bike rider is often to blame for the accident.
- You are legally obliged to wear a helmet. - The person who is at fault for the accident usually bears the costs.
- Quads can usually be driven with a B driving licence
What are the causes of a quad bike accident?
The quad bike is primarily designed for action-packed off-road driving. The ATV (all-terrain vehicle), which is driven on both axles and therefore has four-wheel drive, is particularly popular here. The off-road capability and the usually very good power-to-weight ratio increase the risk of accidents. As the quad bike weighs significantly less than a conventional car and has no real crumple zone due to its design, the risk of injury is also significantly higher.
Statistically, in the majority of cases, the rider of the quad is to blame for the accident. This is only logical, as winding and challenging routes are particularly appealing to ATV riders. An accident on such routes can often be attributed to driving errors in combination with the reduced technology of the quad. Driving errors that are compensated for in a car by ABS, ESP and various assistance systems have a direct impact on a quad bike. There is also no crumple zone on a quad bike, which increases the likelihood of physical injury. Inexperienced drivers in particular initially have difficulties with the special handling behaviour of quad bikes.
Good to knowAs a rule, an accident involving a quad bike is a so-called single-vehicle accident. This means that no other road user is involved in or responsible for the accident. Quad bikes are not only found off-road, but also in normal road traffic, which means that a quad bike can also get into an accident with a car. In this constellation, the quad bike and its rider are clearly the weaker party compared to the car.
Who is liable in the event of a quad bike accident?
In terms of liability, quad bikes are no different from cars, as the person responsible for the accident is generally liable.
Liability insurance is also compulsory for a quad bike so that the injured party is not left with the costs after an accident. Liability insurance covers the possible claims for damages that an injured party can make against you after an accident with a quad bike.
Comprehensive insurance is advisable for your own damage to the quad bike so that you do not have to pay for the damage yourself if you are at fault for the accident.
Which driving licence is required to drive a quad bike?
You need a class B driving licence to drive a quad bike. If you are involved in an accident without a driving licence, you may be charged for this. As quad bike riders themselves are particularly often at fault for the accident with the quad bike, a Prima facie evidence at the expense of quad bike riders.
How can you be safer when travelling by quad bike?
Due to their special design features, quad bikes can be particularly susceptible to road accidents. It is therefore essential to familiarise yourself with the special driving behaviour of ATVs.
Good to knowAs a rule, a normal B driving licence is sufficient for driving an ATV, as there is no special quad driving licence. However, this is particularly risky, as many novice quad riders are not sufficiently familiar with the typical driving characteristics of a quad bike.
The safety equipment on quad bikes is very sparse. For example, seat belts are not compulsory. The only prescribed protective measure is a Helmet. This is to protect you from serious head injuries in the event of an accident. If you are caught by the police without a helmet, you will be fined 15 euros.
In addition to familiarising yourself with this unusual vehicle, the risk of accidents and injuries can be reduced by taking various precautions:
- Use of ATVs with a differential gearbox
- Intensive instruction and practice ride when purchasing a quad bike
- Intensive training phase in a safe environment
- Reduce speed on bends
- careful and cautious driving
the policyholder.
Steps towards fair claims settlement
Have you had an accident with a quad bike? Here is our recommended solution:
- Simply report the accident to us free of charge by telephone on 0800 30 111 60 or even faster hier online.
- Your accident will be checked within a few minutes and you will receive a call to discuss the best course of action for you.
- The experts in our network who specialise in the enforcement of accident claims will obtain the best possible compensation for you.
Your big advantage: In the event of accidents that are not your fault, fees for legal support are part of your statutory compensation claims and are therefore payable by the insurance company of the party responsible for the accident. This means the best support for you without any cost risk. We look forward to your call!
