Brake the Habit: ‘Over the Limit’ Never a Good Prospect

Approximately 45% of road accidents in India involve two-wheelers, highlighting a significant safety concern. In 2022, there were 4,61,312 road crashes resulting in 1,68,491 fatalities. The majority of these accidents could potentially be avoided with proper helmet usage. This emphasizes the need for better education on road safety and adherence to safety regulations among riders.

Improving road safety education in India could involve integrating it into school curriculums to teach children about traffic rules and safe driving practices from a young age. Additionally, collaboration with industries, such as requiring two-wheeler manufacturers to include helmets with their vehicles, can promote safety awareness among new riders.

Common driving mistakes that lead to higher maintenance costs include revving a cold engine, riding the clutch, driving on low fuel, frequent hard braking, and jumping over speed bumps. These habits can cause unnecessary wear and tear on the vehicle, leading to costly repairs over time.

The Indian government is investing approximately Rs 40,000 crore to identify and rectify accident-prone areas. There is also a push for stricter enforcement of traffic laws, including hefty fines for violations, to encourage safer driving behaviors. Additionally, programs like the Bharat New Car Assessment Programme aim to promote the manufacture of safer vehicles.

Proper helmet use significantly reduces the risk of fatal injuries in two-wheeler accidents. Studies indicate that helmets can decrease the risk of head injuries by up to 69% and fatalities by 42%. Given that a substantial number of deaths could be avoided with helmet usage, promoting their use is crucial for improving road safety.