Farm vehicles, including quad bikes, side-by-side vehicles (SSV), tractors, utility vehicles (ute), and motorbikes, are valuable to the farming industry due to their efficiency and versatility. However, these vehicles carry significant risks if not used properly and this is a leading cause of fatalities and serious injuries on farms.

A red and black farm vehicle photographed from the front, position on a dirt road with trees in the background.A yellow tractor bogged in the middle of a green field, with mud reaching halfway up it's wheels. The trackor is empty, and the sky above is overcast and grey.

Photo 1 – A side by side vehicle Photo 2 – A tractor stuck in mud.

Incidents involving farm vehicles have become more frequent, with reports of serious injury or fatality occurring almost monthly in the last year.

Here are some examples of recent incidents involving farm vehicles:

  • In September 2024, a worker was operating a quad bike in a creek bed. The worker was driving up the bank diagonally when they struck a section of raised dirt and grass, causing the quad bike to roll-over and fatally pin the worker underneath
  • In October 2024, a worker was operating a SSV when the vehicle rolled. The worker was ejected with the SSV landing on the worker, resulting in fatal injuries
  • In November 2024, a worker was operating a SSV near a river when the vehicle rolled into the river, trapping the worker in the water and resulting in fatal injuries
  • In November 2024, a worker was operating a quad bike when the vehicle rolled, trapping the worker and causing fatal injuries
  • In February 2025, a worker was operating a ute. When they turned off a gravel road, the vehicle rolled and the worker was ejected from the vehicle, resulting in fatal injuries.

Safety information

Farm vehicles can be dangerous if not used properly. Always prioritise safety by ensuring you:

  • No seat belt = No start – always buckle up in SSVs, tractors, and utes
  • Helmets save lives – always wear a helmet when on quad bikes, SSV’s and motorbikes
  • Fit safety gear – make sure quad bikes have an OPD (Operator Protection Device)
  • Check the ground – avoid steep or unsafe areas, especially after rain. A drone may help you avoid driving on steep terrain
  • Choose the right vehicle – match the vehicle to the task, terrain and load
  • Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and instructions – stick to load limits, balance and secure your load properly
  • Train before use – make sure everyone is trained to safely inspect and operate the vehicle prior to its use
  • Make sure the person operating the vehicle is over the age of 16
  • Drive to the conditions –operate at a speed that is suitable for the conditions
  • Keep your vehicle well maintained – follow the manufacturer’s instructions
  • Plan ahead – take a few minutes to assess conditions before starting work
  • Don’t rush – taking shortcuts increases your risk
  • Stay in touch – let someone know where you are working and carry a phone or two-way radio.

Take care, take time and take action to stay safe on the farm.

Statistics

  • agriculture is one of the most dangerous industries, with a significantly higher rate of fatalities and serious injuries compared to other sectors
  • since September 2024, SafeWork NSW has responded to 42 serious incidents involving farm vehicles
  • In 2024 there were 5 fatalities involving farm vehicles, and so far in 2025, there have been 2 more.

Related guidance material

Further information

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