Context
Motorcycles are a fast-growing means of transport in low and middle-income countries, with 60-70 million new registrations annually. According to World Road Statistics, there were 595 million motorcycles in use in 2018, almost triple the number in 2000.
Motorcycle safety is an ongoing concern. According to the latest Global Road Safety Status Report published by the World Health Organization (2023), 21% of fatal road crashes involved powered two and three-wheelers (such as motorcycles, mopeds, or scooters). An estimated 3.4 million people died from motorcycle crashes globally between 2008 and 2020, of which 1.4 million lives could have been saved with the proper use of certified-quality safety helmets.
Motorcyclists are classified as vulnerable road users and face several distinct road safety risks, including reduced protection in the event of a crash, diminished visibility to fellow road users due to the small vehicle size, maneuverability challenges, insufficient rider utilization of protective gear such as helmets, and often inadequate road infrastructure. Widespread use of quality helmets alone would reduce the risk of death in road crashes by over six times and reduce the risk of brain injury by up to 74%.
Our Approach
GRSF recognizes the urgent need to enhance motorcycle safety worldwide and is actively supporting this priority area. Leveraging the World Bank's increased involvement in motorcycle safety initiatives, GRSF provides guidance to governments regarding the implementation of effective motorcycle regulations and standards. This includes providing technical support for the adoption of national helmet standards and promoting enforcement strategies to maximize helmet usage.
Additionally, GRSF collaborates with vehicle manufacturers to encourage the inclusion of safety features such as automated braking systems in motorcycle design, and works with insurance providers to encourage driver training and safer driver behavior in exchange for lower insurance premiums.
GRSF also focuses on increasing access to high-quality, affordable, and climate-appropriate helmets in low- and middle-income countries, and engages with logistics and moto-taxi rideshare platforms to improve motorcyclist safety and disseminate good safety practices. In addition, GRSF supports safety awareness campaigns for motorcyclists, both at the time of purchase and on a regular basis.
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