The advice was made based on a recent report by the New Straits Times which revealed that out of 638 accidents within three days of Op Selamat 11/2017, 60% involved motorcyclists.
Speaking to FMT, Ikatan Silaturrahim Brotherhood chief Azlan Sani Zawawi said it was often difficult for other road users to spot motorcyclists, especially at night, and so motorcyclists had to take extra precautions to ensure they were noticed.
This was especially true, he said, during festive seasons when there were a lot of vehicles on the road.
“As motorcyclists, it is important that we are both seen and heard. Being a motorcyclist is a choice and with it comes a lot of responsibilities,” he said.
Azlan, who is better known as Lando, said some of the things motorcyclists could do to make themselves more obvious to other road users were by wearing bright coloured jackets and reflector vests at night, ensure their headlights are on even during the day, and, if possible, by installing louder exhaust pipes on their motorcycles.
“Get exhaust pipes loud enough to be heard but not too loud that it causes noise pollution. Being heard has kept me alive all this while.”
He said even the way motorcyclists ride their motorcycles could add a lot towards being seen by other road users.
“Always be in an angle or position where you are easily spotted by others and ensure that when you’re overtaking other vehicles that you time it correctly.
“Also, don’t be shy with your horn if you spot another vehicle moving in a strange manner,” he said.
Azlan pointed out that ensuring one had enough rest before setting out on long journeys was important for all motorists but especially so for those riding motorcycles.
“You need to be focused on riding and not daydreaming. Remember that riding a bike takes more effort and wears you out faster than driving does.”
He claimed that during festive seasons, many road users use smartphone apps, such as Waze, or separate GPS devices to get to open houses.
“This is where most accidents involving motorcycles happen during festive seasons because other road users are too busy looking at their smartphones or GPS devices.
“I want to take this opportunity to tell them to please learn to judge distance in metres, especially in areas which have a lot of turns or exits. And if you don’t know how to do that, then please drive slower and take care not to make any unexpected turns,” he said, claiming that some drivers have even been seen stopping in the middle of the road.
Op Selamat 11/2017 is being carried out in conjunction with Aidilfitri. The operation will continue until July 2.