Increasing Motorcycle Accidents in the 'Untact' Era... Road Traffic Authority Releases 'Safe Driving Guidelines'

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Gwan-joo] Amid the rapid increase in 'untact' (contactless) consumption due to the spread of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19), motorcycle traffic accidents are on the rise due to increased delivery demand. In response, the Korea Road Traffic Authority disclosed the 'Guidelines for Safe Motorcycle Driving' on the 28th to correct misunderstandings about motorcycle driving and promote safe driving.

One of the biggest misunderstandings about motorcycle driving is 'stunt driving.' However, in fact, leaning the motorcycle while driving is to tilt the vehicle during curve riding to exert centripetal force equal to the centrifugal force and maintain balance, making it one of the safe driving methods contrary to public perception.

However, some drivers excessively lean the vehicle to the extent that it threatens surrounding vehicles or unnecessarily lean the vehicle on straight sections, which should be avoided for safety.

Furthermore, motorcycle drivers and regular car drivers should prevent accidents through considerate and safe driving. Four-wheeled vehicle drivers should also maintain a safe distance and avoid overtaking motorcycles recklessly or following too closely behind them.

Motorcycle drivers must keep in mind that motorcycles are less stable means of transportation than regular cars and pay close attention to safe driving. They should comply with traffic laws such as signals and lanes, be cautious of taxi and bus passengers getting on and off, and avoid crossing crosswalks or sidewalks to protect pedestrians. To reduce head and neck injuries, helmets should be securely fastened under the chin, and helmets that have been used for 4 to 5 years should be replaced regularly as their durability decreases.

Detailed guidelines can be found at the Korea Road Traffic Authority e-Learning Center (trafficedu.koroad.or.kr). A representative of the Korea Road Traffic Authority stated, “The increase in motorcycle traffic accidents can be seen as a lack of mutual understanding among all drivers and pedestrians on the road,” emphasizing, “We must understand the characteristics of motorcycles and comply with the Road Traffic Act to create a traffic culture of mutual consideration.”

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.