Cover image via NSTP
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It was a calm morning drive, with traffic moving steadily along Jalan Maarof in Bangsar
As I approached a traffic light, it turned yellow.
The car in front of me began to slow down, and I followed suit.
For those unfamiliar, a yellow light signals that drivers should prepare to stop, unless it is unsafe to do so.
While the driver ahead managed to turn and proceed, I chose to stop. as did another vehicle beside me.
The light stayed yellow briefly before turning red.
Moments later, a motorcyclist emerged from behind, weaving between lanes.
As he rode past, he hurled vulgarities at us for stopping, then sped off — even though the traffic light had already turned red.
This is not an isolated incident. In fact, it is a familiar sight at traffic lights across the country.
Many motorists continue to run red lights and this behaviour is not confined to e-hailing riders alone.
Some e-hailing riders have been seen running red lights to speed up food deliveries, presumably to hit targets and boost earnings.
Being smaller on the road does not grant anyone the liberty to disregard traffic laws.
While motorcycles may have the advantage of manoeuvrability, that should never come at the expense of safety or consideration for others.
Another common scenario is when a driver signals to change lanes
While nearby vehicles slow down to make space, a motorcyclist further behind may suddenly accelerate, sometimes seemingly deliberately, while sounding the horn.
This behaviour is not just hazardous but also adds to noise pollution.
AI-generated image for illustration purposes only.
Image via GeminiLast year, a total of 6,537 deaths were recorded on the roads — 4,340, or 66.4%, were motorcyclists.
If anything, these numbers serve as a stark reminder that motorcyclists, as the most vulnerable road users, must exercise greater caution instead of engaging in risk-taking behaviour.
