Do you ever get dizzy from observing motorbike riders attempting to get through traffic? As doing this can be one of the main causes of major motorbike traffic accidents, it is important to be aware of the road rules to ensure the safety of not only yourself but others surrounding you. Pyeongtaek Insight is here to let you in on a few safety rules and precautions for those who have or ride motorbikes/two-wheeled vehicles.
What is considered a two-wheeled vehicle? According to Article 2, Paragraph 19 of the Road Traffic Act, two-wheeled vehicles are defined as two-wheeled vehicles and similar that are suitable for transporting one or two people regardless of the total displacement or rated power. However, electric bicycles and electric scooters that can be commonly seen nowadays are classified as ‘vehicles other than bicycles.’
Reckless Driving (Speeding and Signal Violation) - Two-wheeled vehicle traffic accidents are mostly caused by events such as signal violations and reckless driving. As defined above, two-wheeled vehicles are defined similarly to cars; therefore, driving on sidewalks will result in 10 penalty points and a fine of 40,000 KRW.
Riding Issues (Ex. Not Wearing Helmet) - Unlike passenger cars, motorcycles lack surrounding physical protection, so it is a must to wear protective equipment such as helmets. Injuries received during an accident can end up more severe if not having worn a helmet.
Tips on How to Stay Safe While Riding.
Driving Through a Bend - When driving your vehicle in a curved motion, consider the center of gravity of the body and the driver's own center of gravity. When rotating, a rider’s body should tilt along with the slow motion of the turning vehicle on the curve. It is considered prohibited to overtake in sharp or sudden curves or corners.
Passing Through a Rotary Intersection – When driving within an intersection, it is always critical to make sure to always follow the signal lights and not tail any surrounding vehicle drivers. Be sure to slow down before entering any intersection and pay attention to the movement of the surrounding vehicles before slowing down.
Rules to Follow When Riding
Always Wear a Helmet – Helmets must be worn to help minimize two-wheeled vehicle accident casualties and keep personal safety. Wearing a helmet is mandatory, even if running a short riding distance. According to Article 50, Paragraph 3 of the Road Traffic Act, it is stipulated that motorcycle drivers, as well as passengers, are required to wear life protective gear during travel. If in the case that you are found not wearing a helmet, you will be fined for 20,000 KRW.
No Riding on Sidewalks or Crosswalks - Motorcycles can essentially threaten pedestrian safety by riding on sidewalks or crosswalks. If in the case riders are found driving a motorbike on the sidewalk, they will receive a fine of 40,000 KRW and be penalized with 10 penalty points. If found riding on a crosswalk, riders will receive a fine of 40,000 KRW and will be imposed with 30 penalty points.
No Reckless Driving – It is common to see motorbike riders driving recklessly, driving at excessive speeds, cutting into the lane of other drivers, and braking suddenly. Violent driving of two-wheeled vehicles can result in up to one year in confinement or a fine of up to 5 million KRW. It is essential for drivers to always follow traffic signals and keep a safe distance from the surrounding vehicle drivers as well as the driver in front of you.
Turn on Headlights During Nighttime Hours & Harsh Weather Conditions (When Visibility is Low) - When it is dark and difficult to gain visibility, it is important to take much caution while making sure to turn on your headlights. On nights when slippery rain or obstacles are difficult to detect, slow down, proceed in all areas with caution and turn on headlights.
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