When riding a motorcycle, you are exposed to certain risks that are usually not faced when driving a car. Like any other vehicle, bikes too are vulnerable to road mishaps. Given certain factors, motorcycle riders are more vulnerable and at-risk when riding.
In such situations, every rider should be well-aware of the road risks and remedies that they can practice in case they are involved in a road accident. But before we dive deep into the topic, let us look at some important statistics.
A study shows that bike riders are 26 times more likely to die from a collision compared to someone driving in a car. Moreover, they are five times more likely to suffer from severe injuries. In India, over 25 percent of total road accident rates are due to two-wheelers. It is almost equivalent to losing over 300 people each day to bike road mishaps.
Issues Unique to Bike Riders
Following are some issues that bike riders frequently face.
1. Visual Recognition
Bike riders tend to have a concise visual target, most of which is blocked by other vehicles on the road. Sometimes, even weather conditions tend to tamper with the vision. As a matter of fact, over 70 percent of motorcycle collisions tend to take place at intersections.
2. Road Hazards
We all know the condition of Indian roads. Every bike rider has to deal with conditions such as –
- Potholes
- Oil slicks
- Puddles
- Debris
- Ruts
- Uneven pavement
- Railroad tracks
These issues could be minor for people driving a car, but can be hazardous for bike riders. Moreover, travelling distances in such situations is a task, and hence bike riders are exposed to higher road accident risk.
3. Speed Accidents
Driving a motorcycle at high speed can make it unstable on roads. This usually happens due to misalignment of the front and rear tyres. Although motor manufacturers can be held liable for this defect, driving a bike at high speed is an open invitation to road mishaps.
Not only will you be violating the law under Section 184 MV Act for dangerous driving but also under Section 279 IPC for rash and negligent driving. It will lead to hefty penalties and/or prison time.
4. Riding Skills and Familiarity
Riding a bike requires utter coordination and alertness compared to driving a car. A lot of two-wheeler accidents in India happen due to individuals who lack basic riding skills and an understanding of the bike functionalities.
Safety Tips for Bike Riders
- Ensure that you are always wearing a helmet
- Buy a bike that you can easily manage
- Install anti-lock brakes for safety purposes
- Enhance your bike riding skills as and when time permits
- Be alert and attentive at all times
- Avoid riding the bike in adverse weather conditions
- Look out for road hazards and avoid riding your bike through them
Lastly,
As a rider, it is your responsibility to protect yourself and others on the road. It is thus essential to follow the basic road safety rules when riding.
In fact, to ensure that people in India are adhering to the traffic rules, the government has imposed hefty penalties under the new Motor Vehicle Act, 2019. So, to avoid burning a hole in your pocket, abide by the traffic safety regulations at all times.
