Riders warned to seek proper roadside assistance
PETALING JAYA: It is a common sight on Malaysian roads – a motorcyclist pulling alongside a broken-down rider and using a leg to push the machine towards a workshop, petrol station or a safe space.
However, this act could put helping riders on the wrong side of the law, warns Bukit Aman Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department (JSPT) director Comm Datuk Seri Muhammed Hasbullah Ali.
He said such assistance must be carried out safely and in accordance with existing road traffic laws and regulations.
“Riding alongside a disabled motorcycle and using a leg to push it may seem like a quick fix, but it carries serious risks,” he said.
“Both riders lose stability and control, especially when braking, cornering, or dodging obstacles in traffic.”
Comm Hasbullah said existing road traffic regulations also contained provisions governing the proper manner in which a disabled vehicle could be moved or towed.
He said the Road Traffic Rules 1959 has provisions for the regulations, laws and guidelines on the proper manner a disabled vehicle may be moved or towed.
“The RTD enforcement schedule specifically lists Rule 119, Motor Vehicles (Construction and Use) Rules 1959 on unlawful towing of another vehicle.
“This is a compoundable offence. Hence, whether any particular incident constitutes an offence would depend on the actual circumstances and the manner in which it was carried out,” he said.
Comm Hasbullah advised motorcyclists whose machines had broken down to prioritise getting themselves and their motorcycles to a safe location without creating additional danger to themselves or other road users.
He said where it is possible, motorcyclists should seek proper roadside assistance or an appropriate towing service.
Comm Hasbullah said any assistance to fellow road users should be carried out with good judgement and safety in mind.
“It is certainly a noble act to help another road user in need and we highly encourage it. But please do it safely and within the law. We do not want the bikers to end up in an accident,” he said.
Concerns over the unconventional motorcycle-towing practice arose after a recent viral video on social media showed a biker assisting another rider in similar fashion amid heavy traffic in the Klang Valley.
Moments later, the helping rider lost control and crashed onto the road, narrowly avoiding a collision with a passing car and a vehicle trailing close behind.
