Road safety is a critical issue in India, particularly for two-wheeler riders. According to the National Crime Records Bureau, two-wheelers account for India’s highest road accident deaths. In 2019, over 38,000 people lost their lives in two-wheeler accidents, nearly 30% of all road accident deaths in the country. Hence, it highlights the urgent need for effective road safety measures for two-wheeler riders in India.

Primary reasons for the high number of two-wheeler accidents in India include:

Lack of proper training and education for riders.
Many riders in India need valid driving licenses and have yet to receive adequate training on how to ride safely.
Additionally, many riders do not follow traffic laws and regulations, such as wearing helmets and obeying speed limits.
Another significant factor contributing to road accidents involving two-wheelers is poor road infrastructure.
Many roads in India need to be in better condition, without potholes, uneven surfaces, and needing signage. Thus, it makes it difficult for two-wheeler riders to navigate safely and increases the risk of accidents.

Thus, to address these issues, there is a need for a comprehensive approach to road safety for two-wheelers in India. The countermeasures should include the following:

Education and Training:

Providing proper training and education for two-wheeler riders on how to ride safely and follow traffic laws. It should include a mandatory driving test and licensing system for two-wheeler riders.

Enforcement of Traffic Laws:

Strict enforcement of traffic laws and regulations, such as mandatory helmet use and speed limits, ensures that riders follow the rules.

Road Infrastructure Improvements:

Investment towards improving the road infrastructure, such as building better roads and increasing road signage to make it safer for two-wheeler riders.

Public Awareness Campaigns:

Launch public awareness campaigns to educate the public on the importance of road safety and the risks associated with two-wheeler riding.

Safety Gear:

Encouraging the use of safety gear, such as helmets and protective clothing, to reduce the severity of injuries in case of an accident.

New Technology:

Investing in new technologies, such as lane departure warning systems, anti-lock brakes, and automatic headlamps, can help improve two-wheelers’ safety.

Responsible Riding:

Encouraging responsible riding, such as avoiding riding under the influence of drugs or alcohol and avoiding distracted driving.

Use of Public Transportation:

Encouraging public transit to reduce the number of two-wheelers on the road.

Inspire Carpooling:

Carpooling and ride-sharing will reduce the number of vehicles on the road and, thus, the risk of accidents.

Go Green:

Encouraging the use of electric two-wheelers, as they are more environmentally friendly and can reduce the number of accidents caused by fossil fuel-powered vehicles.

In conclusion, road safety for two-wheelers in India is a critical issue that requires a comprehensive approach. It includes education and training for riders, strict enforcement of traffic laws, road infrastructure improvements, public awareness campaigns, the use of safety gear and encouragement of responsible riding, public transportation, carpooling, and electric vehicles. By implementing these measures, we can reduce the number of accidents involving two-wheelers and save lives on Indian roads.

Disclaimer: This article was prepared or accomplished by it's author in their personal capacity. The opinions expressed in this article are the author's own and do not reflect the view of Motorbikes India or it's owners.

Road Safety in India – Issues and Solutions