The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways recently issued a notification that specifies the use of a safety harness and crash helmet for
children below four years of age. Children below the aforementioned age being carried on a scooter or a motorcycle must use the safety measures. Reports suggest that India has become the first country to mandate the crash helmet and harness for kids below the age of four while riding or being carried on a bike.
The notification from MoRTH also restricts the speed of two-wheelers to 40 km per hour, if a child is on-board. Furthermore, MoRTH also amended the Central Motor Vehicle Rules, 1989, making the two safety equipment compulsory for children. The aforementioned notification is for children between the age of nine months and four years.
Why are Helmets Important?
Helmetless riding is one of the most consequential reasons for injury and death in India. Children are especially exposed to crash forces when riding pillion, as their bodies can potentially be thrown away from the motorcycle with force. Therefore a speed limit of 40 kmph is necessary to curb the crash forces and also give the rider a better opportunity in controlling the vehicle. A crash helmet plus a safety harness will further help the child stay tethered to the rider and may help save lives in a crash.
What is a Safety Harness?
Soon a new standard adjustable vest will be available to be worn by the child. The strap will be attached to the torso of the child helping them stay firm on the scooter or motorcycle. Currently, two-wheeler manufacturers design, develop and optimise a two-wheeler for two adults. According to MoRTh, the safety harness should be durable, waterproof, and must be able to carry a weight of 30 kgs. According to MoRTH must also have two large crossing-over loops passing between the legs of the child passenger.
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