By: Dr Younis Kamal
Every day, millions of people across the country use two-wheelers—scooters and motorcycles—as their primary means of transportation. While these vehicles offer convenience and affordability, they also come with their own set of risks, many of which are preventable with proper awareness. One often overlooked but highly dangerous hazard is the risk posed by loose clothing, such as sarees, abayas, dupattas, scarves, or even a child’s blanket or a long belt, becoming entangled in the rear wheel of a moving two-wheeler.
A Real-Life Example: A Near-Fatal Mishap
Recently, our trauma and orthopedic department treated a 21-year-old woman who suffered a major accident while riding pillion on a two-wheeler. The young woman was carrying a baby in her lap, and her long headscarf (dupatta) unexpectedly got caught in the rotating rear wheel. The resulting force dragged her off the bike, causing a severe fall.
She sustained:
- A major fracture and serious neck injury, which required urgent surgical intervention.
- The baby suffered minor trauma.
- The driver, too, suffered superficial injuries.
Thanks to timely medical intervention and a successful operation by our department, the young woman is currently recovering well. However, this incident underscores a critical, yet often underestimated, safety issue.
The Underestimated Risk
Loose clothing, especially traditional attire like sarees, abayas, and long scarves, poses a serious entanglement hazard. These garments can easily get pulled into the spokes or chains of two-wheelers, particularly:
- While riding pillion without proper footrests.
- When garments hang low or flap near the wheels.
- When carrying a child or other object that may distract or limit mobility.
Such accidents can lead to:
- Severe fractures and spinal injuries
- Neck injuries and strangulation
- Head trauma or abrasions
- In extreme cases, fatalities
Preventive Measures Everyone Must Know
Raising awareness is the first and most crucial step in preventing such avoidable tragedies. Here are some simple but effective preventive steps:
- Secure Loose Clothing
Tuck in sarees, dupattas, abayas, or long scarves before riding. Use pins or clips if necessary.
- Use Saree Guards and Footrests
Always ensure that the two-wheeler is equipped with a saree guard and footrests for the pillion rider.
- Avoid Carrying Infants on Laps While Riding
It is unsafe to carry children in your arms while riding a two-wheeler. Use a proper child seat or avoid travel altogether with infants on such vehicles.
- Wear Helmets and Protective Gear
Both rider and pillion should always wear helmets and closed-toe footwear.
- Ride with Awareness and Caution
Avoid distractions, overloading, or riding in rush hours when attention is compromised.
- Educate Family and Community
Spread awareness about this danger among family members, especially women and older adults who wear traditional garments.
A Call to Action
The incident described above was entirely preventable. It serves as a stark reminder that something as simple as securing loose garments can save lives and prevent lifelong disabilities. As healthcare professionals, we urge the public to take this risk seriously and adopt the necessary safety measures. With increased awareness and proactive precautions, we can prevent such accidents from harming more lives.
Let us not wait for another tragedy to happen before we act. Be aware. Be safe. Prevent the preventable.
The writer is Head of the Department of Orthopedics and Spine surgery. GMC, Anantnag
