New Delhi: Traveling is essential and mobility is fundamental! The government has really taken huge steps for better transportation, in which Metro train is the brightest example. However, the public at large resorts to individual modes of traveling depending upon their affordability parameters. With prices of four wheelers touching peaks, people tend to buy two-wheelers for individual & family needs. The phenomenal growth of two-wheelers has been seen in India over the period of time. About 75% of the registered vehicles in the country are two-wheelers. Owing to packed traffic situations, the sale of two-wheelers is expected to rise further tremendously in the upcoming times.”
Mr. Harsh Taneja, Director – Max Auto, Flagship Dealership for Mahindra Two-Wheelers, Saraswati Vihar (Pitampura), Delhi "The greater the number of two-wheelers on road, greater the risk of exposure to injuries. As per a report, the two-wheeler drivers and pillon riders get involved in almost 51% of the injuries sustained in traffic accidents. This is not because of riding a two-wheeler, but because the riders generally do not follow proper safety measures. Among those who suffer fatal injuries, more than half are found to be over speeding at the time of the collision, more than half are found not wearing helmets, and nearly 7% are found to be under the influence of alcohol."
Two-wheeler drivers need to adopt safe driving behaviors’. They should not make rapid lane changes, and must use horn so that other drivers see them. One must maintain proper distance from the vehicle ahead. Helmet should not be worn only to avoid traffic challans but for one’s own safety; it should be a habit. Helmet is the only thing that protects you from fatal injuries. Only a good quality, jaw covering helmet should be bought. Under no circumstances, there should be a mix of drinking and driving. About 50% of fatal accidents involve alcohol. If you are drunk, let someone else do the driving. I also request the government to take steps in separating two-wheelers and other slow moving traffic from heavy and speeding vehicles on the roads. The unlicensed and young children should be banned to drive.
It is commonly seen that the teenagers drive scooters without the supervision of their parents. They take risks while driving and show thrills on the roads, which is highly unsafe. Two-wheeler drivers need to be educated for driving within speed limits, wearing helmets, and minding their habits while driving. The teachers in schools have a very special role to play. The students must be made aware of safe driving practices. It is recommended that one must follow the service schedules of the bikes and get all repairs done at the authorized workshops only. The rainy season is approaching when the water goes into the shoes and brakes may not work. One must speed down during such weathers.
“ Night driving requires additional safety measures. One must minimize the bike trips during night as motorists can barely see a motorcycle. This should be followed religiously during the rainy season. The low and high beams must be used efficiently. Helmets with reflectors are the best helpers. Be aware of the animals, especially dogs, darting just in front of your bike. Drive safe and reach your destination,’’ further added Mr. Harsh Taneja.