ShareBy Talal Abueljebain
During a long road trip in Oman, Khaled Abueljebain nearly lost control of his bike when a sudden sandstorm blocked his view of the road. Thanks to his well-equipped gear, he regained control and found a safe spot to stop shortly thereafter. This incident served as a reminder for Abueljebain, with his 23 years of riding experience, of the critical importance of preparation and safety gear, especially in unpredictable conditions.
Current state of motorcycle safety in Kuwait
In regions with high motorcycle usage, motorcycles contribute to over 70 percent of all road traffic fatalities, as reported by the World Health Organization (WHO). Factors contributing to these fatalities include the lack of helmet usage, speeding, mixed traffic conditions, and inadequate road infrastructure.
Delivery drivers and young riders are the ones at greatest risk due to these conditions, said Abueljebain, who is a motorcycle enthusiast and co-founder of Kuwait Riders. The tight deadlines imposed on delivery drivers make them prone to risky behaviors, while the immaturity of some young riders makes them more susceptible to fatal accidents.
Inexperienced riders might have trouble being aware of safety measures. Abueljebain, founder of Bikes4Sale, emphasized the importance of wearing full safety gear, including helmets, gloves, and protective clothing. “Adhering to traffic laws, maintaining a safe speed, and being aware of road conditions are essential,” he advised. Regular maintenance of the motorcycle is another crucial aspect to ensure it’s in good working condition.
Supporting delivery drivers
While delivery drivers often breach safety rules, they are not entirely to blame. Some companies fail to provide their drivers with safe working conditions and don’t take responsibility when a driver suffers an accident, according to several drivers who previously shared their experiences with Kuwait Times. Abueljebain said employers should better support their drivers so they’re able to do their job safely. “Fair working conditions, such as reasonable delivery expectations and adequate break times, are key for safety,” Abueljebain added. Abueljebain called for providing employees with proper training, maintaining motorcycles in good condition, and ensuring access to safety gear as fundamental steps.
Yet, he stressed that riders bear responsibility for themselves too, especially since they face unique challenges while frequently on the road. He advised, “Delivery drivers should prioritize safety over speed, plan their routes to avoid the busiest times and areas, and take regular breaks to avoid fatigue.” He added, “Wearing appropriate gear, staying hydrated, and being aware of their surroundings can help mitigate risks.”
Staying safe throughout the seasons
Riding in intense heat poses increased risk to the rider, Abueljebain adds. He recommended several precautions for motorcyclists to maximize safety. He advised staying hydrated, taking frequent breaks, and avoiding riding during the hottest times of the day. “Wearing ventilated gear and using cooling vests can effectively regulate body temperature,” he suggested. Abueljebain said that extreme heat can affect tire pressure and engine performance which makes regular maintenance all the more important.
During the winter and rainy seasons, riders should be cautious of slippery roads. Abueljebain suggested reducing speed, maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles, and using appropriate tires for wet conditions. “Wearing layers to stay warm and ensuring that the helmet visor is clear to avoid fogging is important to keep in mind as well,” he noted.
Raising public awareness
Everyone can contribute by being more aware and respectful of motorcyclists on the road. This includes checking blind spots, giving motorcyclists enough space, and being patient in traffic.
Through Kuwait Riders, Abueljebain promotes motorcycle safety on a broader scale, “We’ve launched awareness campaigns and safety workshops for riders. Collaborating with local authorities to advocate for better infrastructure and stricter enforcement of traffic laws is part of our efforts,” Abueljebain said. Public awareness campaigns are vital to educate drivers on sharing the road safely with motorcyclists.
‘Still much to be done’
While Abueljebain acknowledged the efforts undertaken to promote motorcycle safety in Kuwait, he believed more improvements were necessary. “There is still much to be done to ensure that all road users respect motorcycle riders. Issues like potholes, unmarked lanes, and the lack of dedicated motorcycle lanes need to be addressed,” he explained.
Looking ahead, Abueljebain believes that Kuwait should invest in better infrastructure, including dedicated motorcycle lanes and improved road maintenance. “Public awareness campaigns and stricter enforcement of traffic laws regarding motorcycle safety are needed. Training programs for new riders would also help reduce accidents, especially for delivery drivers,” he asserted.
Enhancing motorcycle safety in Kuwait requires a multifaceted approach involving better infrastructure, public awareness, and stringent safety practices. By working together, Abueljebain hopes we can ensure safer roads for all and promote a culture of enjoyable and responsible motorcycling.
