Rise In Motorcycle Fatalities In 2022 – How To Stay Safe

The Singapore Police Force’s annual road traffic situation report for 2022 has revealed some concerning statistics, particularly when it comes to motorcycle safety. There was a 13.8% rise in the number of accidents that resulted in injuries, increasing from 5,939 cases in 2021 to 6,760 in 2022. The number of individuals who sustained injuries also increased by 14.0%, from 7,240 in 2021 to 8,252 in 2022.

This is a worrying increase. As such, it is essential that both motorcyclists and other drivers remain vigilant on the road to prevent accidents and ensure everyone’s safety.

The Number Of Accidents Are Growing

In 2022, there were 47 fatalities involving motorcyclists and pillion riders. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of head injury by up to 70% and the risk of death by up to 40%. Therefore, it is crucial to wear a helmet every time you ride a motorcycle.

Regular maintenance is also essential for motorcycle safety, as vehicle defects regularly contribute to accidents, too. Basic tasks such as checking tire pressure, brakes, and lights can significantly reduce the risk of accidents. Furthermore, taking a safety course can teach motorcyclists the necessary skills to avoid dangerous situations on the road.

Drinking and riding is also a dangerous combination, as alcohol was a factor in 170 of the reported accidents in 2022. Motorcyclists should never get behind the wheel after drinking, as this not only risks their own lives, but also the lives of other road users.

The Elderly Are The Most Vulnerable 

Traffic accidents involving elderly pedestrians increased by 14.6% in 2022, and the number of elderly pedestrian fatalities increased by 53.3% from the previous year. It’s concerning to note that 73.9% of the fatal accidents involving elderly pedestrians were due to jaywalking, which is a significant increase from 50% in 2021. 

This underscores the need for greater education and awareness among elderly road users. To address this issue, the Traffic Police will continue to engage and educate elderly road users on good road safety habits through talks, concerts, and exhibitions islandwide. 

Recently, they organized the Road Safety Concert for Seniors 2022, which disseminated road safety messages through educational talks, songs, and skits in various languages, including English, Mandarin, and dialects. These efforts can help raise awareness and prevent accidents, ensuring the safety of elderly pedestrians on the roads.

How To Stay Safe On The Road

Staying safe on the road requires both motorcyclists and drivers to take the necessary precautions to prevent accidents and ensure everyone’s safety. As a motorcyclist, wearing protective gear, obeying traffic laws, and staying alert are crucial safety measures. As a driver, giving motorcycles plenty of space, avoiding distractions while driving, and being patient and courteous can help keep the roads safe for everyone.

As a Motorcyclist:

• Wear a helmet to reduce the risk of head injuries and fatalities.
• Obey traffic laws and speed limits to avoid accidents.
• Stay alert and aware of your surroundings at all times.
• Maintain your motorcycle to reduce the risk of vehicle defects.
• Consider taking a safety course to develop necessary skills to avoid dangerous situations on the road.
• Wear protective gear such as gloves, jackets, and boots to minimise the severity of injuries in the event of an accident.

As a Driver:

• Always check your mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes or making a turn.
• Give motorcycles plenty of space on the road to avoid collisions.
• Be patient and courteous when sharing the road with motorcycles.
• Avoid distractions while driving, such as using your phone or eating.
• Pay attention to your surroundings to prevent accidents.
• Remember that motorcycles can be harder to see than other vehicles, so take an extra moment to ensure that the road is clear.

  

Remember that road safety is everyone’s responsibility, and we must all do our part to prevent accidents and fatalities on the road. By working together, we can create a safer and more responsible road culture that benefits everyone.