Road discipline will protect road users

The request by Motor Cycle taxi operators that police be more accommodating on matters of compliance with traffic rules, before they impound their motorcycles, is understandable under a number of circumstances.This request made by the motorcyclists during a meeting with the Prime Minister and other heads of various authorities, must be viewed in the proper context before action is taken. Protection of pedestrians and those who use motorcycles is imperative.Whereas it is important for traffic police to be fair in dealing with the motorcyclists, it must be borne in mind that adherence and respect for road rules is very important in the protection of vulnerable road users.Statistics indicate that the majority of traffic accidents are caused and involve motor cycle taxi operators. In a majority of cases, it is a result of indiscipline and disregard for road regulations.These kinds of accidents lead to fatalities on many occasions while others are left crippled. As the motor cycle taxi operators seek to advance their interests, they ought to be mindful of the fact that it is important to protect their passengers from accidents by strict observance of road rules.It is common knowledge that many motor cycle taxi operators are in the habit of over speeding and only observe road rules when they sight traffic police officers. Their associations have a duty of always sensitising them about what is expected of them on the road.Cooperation between the motorcyclists, police and passengers is vital in avoiding road carnage and also reducing incidences where police are forced to impound the motorcycles.