Motorcyclist gets flack for donning helmet only for himself but not for his child passenger

SINGAPORE: A motorbike rider has gotten flack online for being seen donning a helmet while the child passenger behind him wears none. The photo sparked a conversation about concerns over the child’s safety.

An online user took to social media on Tuesday (July 25) to share a photo of a motorcycle rider with a child passenger at the back. Though the rider had a helmet on, the child did not.”

“Endanger(ing) his child’s life in the busy city of Singapore,” the post read. “Only (he) is protected with helmet…caught by member shared concern parent and their safety come first, thank you.”

The photo caused many to share their concerns over the child’s road safety.

Many talked about the dangers children face, especially when riding a pillion without a helmet.

“The child’s hands aren’t strong enough to hold tight onto the tummy when a slight jerk or impact occurs,” said one. “Some parents think it’s safe because they know better.”

“(There are) no belts to secure the child to the seat and the ride too!” exclaimed another.

Others talked about how such incidents are quite common in Asia, with one pointing out, “Most bikes in Asia can carry the family?”

To this, one responded by saying, “(I) have seen families on motor bikes in Asia and it looks scary. Sometimes this is the only way a poor family can travel but would advise a helmet on (a) child as (I) have seen children and adults fall from the back into traffic.”

Though another cited Malaysia as an example of a country where such a sight is common, a netizen argued, “Very dangerous. If emergency brake, the child will fly and die!”

“This isn’t allowed in Singapore!” said another. “If he’s caught, it’s a jail term and fine. A lot is against the law, but people do it anyway til they’re caught.”