Study Reveals Alarming Helmet Usage Rates in Maharashtra
Only 19 per cent in Maharashtra use helmet correctly, finds 3-year study
Image: The Times Of India
A recent study in Maharashtra, India, revealed that only 19% of motorcyclists use helmets correctly, with just 4% of pillion riders doing the same. Conducted by the Johns Hopkins International Injury Research Unit, the study also highlighted significant speeding issues, particularly among ride-share vehicles, calling for improved enforcement and public awareness campaigns.
- 01The study involved 2.17 lakh observations specifically focused on helmet usage.
- 02Correct helmet use varied by location, with 24% in urban areas, 21% in small towns, and only 10% in rural areas.
- 03Speeding was most prevalent among ride-share vehicles at 23%, with sedans showing the highest speeding rates at 25%.
- 04Seat-belt usage among passengers was only 13%, significantly lower than the 41% for drivers.
- 05In 2025, Maharashtra recorded 15,549 fatalities and 32,147 injuries due to road crashes.
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A study conducted from December 2022 to February 2025 in Maharashtra, India, found that only 19% of motorcyclists were using helmets correctly, while pillion riders showed a mere 4% compliance rate. The research, carried out by the Johns Hopkins International Injury Research Unit under the Bloomberg Philanthropies Initiative for Global Road Safety, included 2.17 lakh observations on helmet use and highlighted alarming speeding trends, particularly among ride-share vehicles, which had a 23% speeding rate. Speeding was more common on state highways (21%) compared to expressways. The study also revealed that correct helmet usage was highest in urban areas at 24%, while rural areas lagged at just 10%. Additionally, seat-belt usage was notably low among passengers at 13%, contrasting with 41% for drivers. The study reported a staggering 15,549 deaths and 32,147 injuries from road crashes in Maharashtra in 2025, prompting calls for enhanced enforcement, public awareness campaigns, and speed management measures to protect vulnerable road users.
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The low rates of helmet and seat-belt usage indicate a pressing need for improved road safety measures in Maharashtra, potentially reducing fatalities and injuries.
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