THE POPULARITY of motorcycle as a mode of transport has also increased the frequency of road accidents involving them. In Western Visayas we’ve actually lost count of the number of motorcycle accidents, many of them fatal.
Something must be done. According to the World Health Organization, 53 percent of road accident fatalities in the Philippines are motorcycle users.
Perhaps we can start with seriously imposing the Motorcycle Helmet Act of 2009. This is for the motorists’ safety. We also have to improve road conditions, including the provision of road signs, streetlights, pavement markings, waiting sheds, sidewalks and speed bumps.
The riders also have to be warned against having a risk-taking behavior which includes riding without protective gears as well as riding under the influence of alcohol or even illegal drugs.
While we’re at this, may we ask how the Special Road Safety Fund is being utilized by the government? Republic Act 8794 or the Road User’s Tax Law mandates that 7.5 percent of the motor vehicle users’ charge (MVUC) collected by the Land Transportation Office should go to the Special Road Safety Fund. The Road Board oversees the use of this fund. It should step up the campaign to create better awareness on the safety and rights of motorcyclists on the road.
On top of these, road courtesy must be promoted. There’s a fair observation that motor vehicle drivers have the tendency to take motorcycle riders lightly on the road, acting as if they are superior to their two-wheeled counterparts. Road courtesy and discipline could prevent accidents on the road. Perhaps we can develop road reminders on the importance of sharing the road with motorcycle riders.
We have to remind our motorists to respect the rights of their fellow motorists especially motorcycle riders while on the road. At the same time, we also have to educate motorcycle riders to respect their fellow motorists’ rights by not weaving in and out of the lanes.
