Two-Wheelers: Advantages and Dangers
Be it for the accompanied sense of freedom, love for the open road, spirit of adventure or the easiness of commuting, motorized two-wheelers such as motorcycles or scooters are a preferred mode of transportation across the world.
Due to its feasibility, many people use two-wheelers for work-related travel. These vehicles are especially a boon for people engaged as field force whose day-to-day activities include traveling from one place to another for work.
However, there are two sides to each story. Along with all the advantages, two-wheelers come with their own set of problems. These two-wheelers are also more prone to road accidents and the riders are thus, rightfully considered vulnerable road users. In India alone, two-wheelers claimed the highest number of lives in accidents (approximately 70,000) in 2021. This challenge to traffic road safety is why it is important to follow certain measures for two-wheeler safety.
Tips for Two-Wheeler Safety
People can drive safely if they make use of the following tips -
- Wear Helmets - This is one of the most apparent two-wheeler safety tips. Wearing helmets that cover your entire face and protect your head from possible injuries is a step you cannot skip over while riding a two-wheeler. In most countries, including India, wearing helmets is mandated by law, even for the pillion rider.
- No Tailgating - Similar to when you are driving a four-wheeler, you should maintain a safe distance from other vehicles when you are riding a motorcycle or a scooter. This practice will give you ample amount of space to prevent an accident if and when other drivers suddenly apply their brakes or abruptly change lanes.
- Follow Traffic Rules - Traffic rules have been created so that everyone can drive safely. You must follow all traffic rules for riding safety. For example - never jump a red traffic signal or use your phone while riding.
- Avoid Overspeeding - While riding two-wheelers, especially a motorcycle, the tendency to drive over the speed limit is more. You have to ensure that you always ride safe at an appropriate speed. This two-wheeler safety tip is even more important when you are working within the city limits.
- Proper Overtaking - If you are overtaking, you should overtake under the correct conditions and follow proper measures. For instance - you should avoid overtaking if big vehicles like buses are moving at a high speed, especially on a road with heavy traffic. When overtaking, ensure that you have enough space to do so and that there is no vehicle fast approaching you from the opposite direction.
- Take Breaks - If you have been riding for a long time or have to cover a long distance, it is always advisable to take a few breaks in between to avoid fatigue and ensure riding safety.
- Avoid Stunts - Unless you are a trained professional, avoid indulging in stunts. The influence of others (movies or people) or simply the thrill of it, encourages riders to indulge in unsafe practices like titling the two-wheeler too close to the ground or refusing to drive in a straight path. To maintain two-wheeler safety, it is of utmost importance that you refrain from engaging in these activities.
- Regular Maintenance and Daily Check Ups - Take proper care of your two-wheeler’s health. Regular maintenance is necessary to make sure that all parts are working properly. Before you start your ride every day, make it a habit to check everything once starting from tire pressure and brakes to indicators and rearview mirrors.
- Slow Down at Junctions and Turns - To drive safely, it is recommended that you slow down to navigate through junctions and turns, especially during heavy traffic. This practice enhances two-wheeler safety by reducing the possibility of colliding with pedestrians and other vehicles. Owing to the weight of a motorcycle or scooter and the lack of visibility at junctions and turns, high-speed riding compromises safety.
- Poor Weather - Weather will not always be on your side. Poor weather conditions, such as rain or fog, make it especially difficult for safe riding. The wet roads increase the chances of skidding and if the downpour continues, it will hamper your visibility. To avoid the risk of getting into accidents, it is better to avoid riding in such conditions.
SafetyConnect: Securing the lives of your Two-wheeler Field Force
SafetyConnect’s Driving Safety Solution can be employed for both four-wheelers and two-wheelers. This solution will help organizations keep their field force safe on the road. Unique features such as at-risk behavior analysis, checklists, SOS, etc. ensure that field employees follow all safe driving practices. Reports that are generated from this safe driving app will empower management to deploy solutions at the correct time to address the risky behavior of employees, whether using a four-wheeler or two-wheeler.
Schedule a demo here to safeguard the lives of your vulnerable two-wheeler riding field force.
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