Homecoming travelers on motorbikes during Eid 2024 are predicted to reach 16.07% or 31.12 million people in Indonesia based on a survey by the Transportation Policy Agency, Ministry of Transportation in collaboration with the Central Statistics Agency, Ministry of Communication and Information. Even though the government has appealed to the public to avoid going home on motorbikes, the number of travelers using two-wheeled vehicles remains high.
Professor of Transportation at Universitas Indonesia (UI), Prof. Dr. Ir. Sutanto Soehodho, M.Eng., said that many people choose motorbikes to go home because it is flexible and economical. Motorcyclists are free to pick their schedule without having to depend on the availability of public transportation. Motorbikes are door-to-door because travelers can use them to visit relatives or tourist attractions. It is also more effective.
However, Prof. Sutanto assesses that there is a high risk for travelers on motorbikes if they travel long distances. “On homecoming trips, one motorbike sometimes contains husband, wife, children, and luggage. It is hazardous. Moreover, the motorbike body cannot protect the user. Our body protects the motorbike, so if it falls, the rider risks serious injury,” he said.
According to him, three factors cause motorbike accidents: riders, vehicles, and the environment. Sick or unfit drivers have a higher risk of accidents. Fatigue is the main factor in road accidents. Fatigue can arise due to driving for a long time without taking a break.
“If someone travels a distance that is not too far, but the traffic takes a long time, it can cause physical and emotional fatigue. This can affect a person’s behavior and motor skills when driving,” said Prof. Sutanto.
Vehicles are also a cause of accidents. Worn brakes, bald tires, a malfunctioning lighting system, or other problems can cause loss of control while driving. Environmental problems are also a factor that causes accidents. Environmental problems not only include natural and weather conditions but also road infrastructure. Uneven, potholed, or slippery roads and inadequate road lighting can cause accidents for motorbike riders.
Prof. Sutanto advised motorbike riders to avoid unknown routes. Apart from the unfamiliar natural conditions, there is also the safety and security of motorists risk; for example, areas with high crime rates. Therefore, before traveling, you should look for information about routes, weather, accident-prone points (black spots), health facilities, rest areas, and other important details.
Motorbike riders are also advised to avoid routes with logistics and commercial vehicles, such as trucks. Because during Eid, demand for logistics is also high. Those who travel more than 50-60 km distances should not carry additional passengers because of fatigue. Make sure the driver takes regular breaks.
Prof. Sutanto appealed to travelers to choose the right mode of transportation. “In the transportation system, travelers should choose the standardized vehicle based on distance and travel in a safe vehicle. Especially if the passenger is more than one person, it would be better for them to use public transportation and send their motorbike via a delivery service,” said Prof. Sutanto.
