It is learnt that in a bid to tackle the rising number of fatal accidents involving pillion riders, the Traffic Department of Goa Police has reportedly announced a crackdown on helmetless riders and pillion riders.
This is a good move by the police due to the disturbing fact that reveals an increasing number of pillion riders being killed due to non-compliance of the helmet laws.
As per the Motor Vehicle Act it is mandatory for both the riders and pillion riders to wear the helmet. It is true the pillion rider is as much at risk of suffering a head injury in case of an accident as the rider of the vehicle.
The motor-cycle taxi service is unique to the state. It is now obvious that the motorcycle pilots will have to carry an extra helmet to be worn by the passenger.
Obviously one may not be able to ask for a lift from a biker if the person is not carrying a helmet. What about children being ferried to school and back by the parent on the two-wheeler?
Shouldn’t children who are pillion riding also be wearing a helmet? They are more susceptible to suffering a head injury in case of an accident. Are helmets of various sizes for children available in the market?
