A quad offers more versatility than other vehicles in terms of its towing capacity and its ability to cope with a range of terrain with ease, from boggy fields to steep inclines.

Can-Am, a large quad manufacturer, claims to “provide utility users with innovative, economical, comfortable and versatile ATVs and SSVs”.

While quads are popular, everyone needs to remember that a farm can be a potentially dangerous environment. Safety must be at the forefront of the user’s mind when operating a quad.

1 Always read the owner’s manual of the vehicle to get a good grasp of the vehicle before operating it.

2 Carefully inspect the quad to ensure that everything is in good working order before setting off.

3 Ensure that loads carried on racks are fully secure, evenly balanced and do not exceed the quad’s capacity (check the manufacturer’s recommendations).

4 When riding the quad, always wear the correct personal protective equipment (PPE) such as helmets, boots, long-sleeved shirts and trousers.

5 Always be aware of your surroundings. Keep your eyes peeled for any pedestrians, obstructions, livestock or anything else in the immediate area.

6 When riding across a slope, keep your weight to the front of the vehicle to prevent it from rising up on the front.

7 When riding downhill, sit as far back as possible. Select a low gear and allow engine braking to slow the quad down. This also leads to a reduction in the need to use brakes as well.

8 When operating in a new area, always walk the route before you drive through it. This is advised because it gives users a better perspective of the dangers and obstacles they could be faced with.

9 Always be aware of changing ground conditions. Irish weather is unpredictable and can change from rain to sun in a matter of moments. Changing conditions could potentially affect the attachments or loads you are pulling.