THE Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has urged motorcyclists to comply with road rules and regulations amid a rise in unsafe riding practices in both urban and rural areas, posing risks to other road users.
In a statement this week, national police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the law enforcement agents had witnessed an increase in the number of traffic violations by motorcyclists.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police has noted a significant increase in the use of motorcycles in both urban and rural set ups, with some riders operating unregistered motorcycles, riding without protective helmets and in certain instances moving around without valid driver’s licences or learner’s licences, while carrying more than one passenger,” he said.
“The police has also observed poor riding conduct by some motorcyclists, including ignoring road signs and signals, reckless and dangerous riding, excessive speed, improper overtaking, riding against the flow of traffic and weaving through moving vehicles.”
Nyathi said such conduct posed serious risks to the safety of the rider, passengers, pedestrians and other road users.
“Motorcyclists are reminded that the Road Traffic Act [Chapter 13:11] and its associated regulations require both the rider and passenger to wear approved protective helmets at all times when operating or riding on a motorcycle, regardless of whether the area is rural, farming, peri-urban or urban.
“Riders operating motorcycles on a learner’s licence or other drivers licence other than Category A (Class 3), are further reminded that the protective helmet must be clearly inscribed with a red letter ‘L’ at the back, in addition to the motorcycle displaying the prescribed L-plates, as required by law.”
Nyathi also emphasised that a motorcycle is only permitted to carry one passenger, who must be properly seated and wearing a protective helmet.
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He emphasised that motorcycles should be registered and licensed, violation of which constituted a traffic law offense and attract penalties.
Nyathi warned that the police would intensify traffic enforcement countrywide to curb road traffic offenses to promote road safety, urging road users to adhere to road rules and regulations, co-operate with law enforcement officers and prioritise safety of all road users.
