Will we remain idly by, doing nothing more than offering condolences to families over the loss of their loved ones?!
Motorcycles are a common means of transport in our country, but the majority have not used them properly. Therefore, As-Suwayda and its towns are witnessing a growing proliferation of motorcycles, due to the high price and scarcity of fuel—since it is sold on the black market—as well as the cheap price of motorcycles, until it has become a phenomenon that constitutes a primary source of nuisance and noise due to loud sounds, especially late at night or early in the morning, in addition to the accidents they cause, despite continuous warnings by some. Yet, we have not witnessed any community action to rein in the state of lawlessness it causes, aside from some efforts to raise the banner of customary reconciliation if someone was involved in causing a death, because the desire for public recognition took precedence over uprooting and controlling the problem.
Without denying that many citizens need motorcycles to run their errands and earn a livelihood, the matter requires regulating their operation within cities and rural areas. Being more prone to accidents compared to cars, riders and passengers face the risk of serious injury or even death in the event of a crash, and many people feel anxious about their safety and that of their loved ones when motorcycles are on the road, adding to their distress.
Moreover, most motorcycles violate traffic regulations and move erratically, exacerbating collisions and placing further strain on the traffic infrastructure in a city that is now overcrowded with cars, bicycles, and motorcycles. Most motorcycle riders are reckless youths, and these vehicles have become a tool for committing misdeeds, ranging from theft to stunts, drifting, and wheelies.
Therefore, we demand deterrent measures to properly regulate their operation, in light of their widespread presence, especially during holidays and late at night.
The injury rate from motorcycle accidents is three times higher than that from car accidents.
And the likelihood of sustaining serious injuries is ten times higher in motorcycle accidents.
At the same time, the cost of treating motorcycle accident injuries is roughly double that of car accidents.
Motorcycle riders must realize the heightened risks associated with riding a motorcycle, as the danger of suffering severe injury and incurring medical costs increases dramatically compared to riding inside a car involved in an accident.
“Motorcycle riders must wear a helmet and adhere to the prescribed speed limit in an effort to minimize head injuries.”
As a result, hardly a week goes by without hearing of a tragic traffic accident claiming the life of a young person...
Let us all cooperate to put an end to this recklessness regarding this issue...
Abu Ismail Hamad Qutaish.
