While the debate over making helmet rule for pillion-riders compulsory is on across the State, grim data about the impact of not wearing helmets has come to light. In the past 11 months, a shocking 40 pillion-riders have lost their lives in road accidents due to serious head injuries, of which 18 were women. This should come as a wake-up call for the riders. Besides the deaths, another stark reality has come to the for — 196 pillion-riders sustained grievous injuries to head in the road accidents. Of the injured, 92 are women and 104 are men. Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Traffic, Archit Chandak stated that the data has revealed the alarming rise in serious injuries to head and fatalities among pillion-riders, not just from accidents, but from the severe impact of head trauma.

 

“The need for helmet use is not just a matter of legal compliance, but a critical safety measure for both riders and pillion passengers,” stated the DCP. Former Director General of Police (DGP), Pravin Dixit said, “Helmet is especially crucial for pillion-riders, as they cannot see what is coming from the front. For instance, if a vehicle like an auto-rickshaw suddenly takes a 180-degree turn, a two-wheeler rider may not have enough time to react, and the pillion-rider is at great risk. When you are riding a two-wheeler, you cannot predict what may happen in the next second. It is essential for the pillion-rider to wear helmet, as they could be thrown off the vehicle in case of an accident. A fall can cause a serious head injury, which can be fatal.” Dixit also pointed out that many people often underestimate the risks and think thinking they are safe for short distances or at low speeds. However, these short rides can turn into life-threatening situations. “Once you are on a high-speed vehicle, it only takes a fraction of a second for an accident to occur. It is critical to protect yourself and reduce the risk of fatal injuries.

 

Wearing helmet is a simple but effective way to safeguard your life,” he said. Dixit, who also had served as Commissioner of Police at Nagpur, underlined the important role of the police, not just in law enforcement, but in ensuring public safety. “The role of the police goes beyond catching criminals; it’s about helping the common man live longer by promoting life-saving practices like wearing helmets. This should be treated as a campaign for the greater good of the people.” “Life has become increasingly critical, and every day without a helmet is an invitation to danger. People must respect traffic rules. Wearing a helmet can save your life and prevent unnecessary harm,” he concluded.