September 30, 2014

Phase 1 of an inquest into the deaths of nine Queenslanders in quad bike accidents over the past two years wound up last week with Queensland Deputy Coroner John Lock making some basic findings into the circumstances of each fatality.

Phase 2 will now begin in November, where recommendations will be formulated to help prevent future quad bike-related deaths.

However Mr Lock has already foreshadowed his belief that quad bikes should not be ridden by children under the age of 16, particularly when unsupervised.

Quad bike accidents are the leading cause of death on Queensland rural properties.

Mr Lock said a lack of riding experience was not a factor in any of the deaths; quad bikes were “unforgiving” if put into a dangerous situation.

Amongst the nine cases considered was that of Durong resident Zoe McInnes who died after a quad bike accident in June last year.

Mr Lock identified several factors that he believed played a part in this incident, including issues related to the bike’s brakes, “some degree of alcohol”, and the fact Ms McInnes had reduced control because she was carrying a bottle in one hand.

However, he noted, she was also not wearing a helmet.

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