A man was riding as a 'passenger' on a motorcycle on the Son Sant Joan airport highway without wearing a helmet, in broad daylight. Both the passenger and the driver face financial penalties.
The image of a man riding without a helmet as a passenger on a motorcycle on the Palma airport highway has once again highlighted reckless driving in Mallorca. The incident occurred this past Monday, during the day, on one of the island's busiest roads, especially during peak season.
According to this newspaper, the vehicle was travelling in the right lane of the central roadway towards the Son Sant Joan aerodrome. The passenger, who was travelling without the mandatory protection, was captured in an image that alarmed witnesses. The motorcycle was moving at reduced speed, which did not eliminate the risk of a fall or collision.
Fines for Passenger and Driver
The regulations of the Directorate General of Traffic (DGT) are clear: no passenger can ride on a motorcycle without an approved helmet. Violating this rule results in financial penalties for both parties. The passenger faces a fine of 200 euros, while the driver can be reported for allowing the infraction, with a penalty that could reach 500 euros.
Sources from road safety consulted remind us that, in addition to the fine, this behaviour endangers the lives of the occupants and other road users. In the event of an accident, the consequences without a helmet are usually fatal or extremely serious.
Recurrence on the Same Highway
This is not the first time a similar recklessness has been recorded on this highway. Just a few weeks ago, another motorcyclist was caught transporting a beach cooler while their companion was riding as a 'passenger'. These episodes, which recur every summer, have led the Local Police of Palma to intensify controls at the airport access points.
For Mallorcan drivers, these images are frustrating. "It's reckless, especially on a fast road like this," comments a Palma resident who drives through the area daily. "Not only are they risking their lives, but they can also cause an accident involving other cars."
Tips for Safe Driving
The DGT reminds us that helmets are mandatory for both the driver and the passenger, and they must be approved and properly fitted. Additionally, they recommend that the passenger holds on firmly to the driver and avoids sudden movements. In Mallorca, where the roads fill with tourists and motorcyclists in summer, caution is key.
The image of the passenger without a helmet has served as a warning for many. "Let’s hope it doesn’t take a tragedy for some to become aware," concludes the resident. Meanwhile, the airport highway continues to witness all kinds of scenes, some as dangerous as this one.
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