Road safety experts and authorities in Malaysia have issued warnings about the dangers and legal implications of motorcyclists assisting broken-down riders by foot-towing their motorcycles on active roads. This practice, which involves one rider propelling another’s disabled motorcycle using a leg while riding alongside it, has raised concerns over its safety risks and potential violations of traffic laws.
Assoc Prof Dr Law Teik Hua, head of the Road Safety Research Centre at Universiti Putra Malaysia, highlighted the significant hazards linked to foot-towing. He explained that extending a leg to push another motorcycle compromises a rider’s ability to maintain stability and control. Motorcycles require continuous physical engagement from the rider, and using a leg to assist another vehicle impairs quick manoeuvrability, especially in emergencies such as sudden lane changes, pedestrians crossing, or road debris. Dr Law also pointed out the vulnerability of the assisted rider, who relies entirely on the actions of the assisting motorcyclist, increasing the likelihood of tipping and accidents involving both parties. He further noted that riding side by side while conversing also reduces available road space and diverts riders' attention from surrounding hazards.
The Malaysian Road and Transportation Safety Association, through its president MD Hairolazaman Muhamed Nor, emphasized the importance of helping fellow riders safely. While acknowledging the camaraderie among motorcyclists, he warned against taking risks such as stopping in blind spots or busy traffic lanes. He advised riders to move motorcycles completely off the active road before attempting repairs or checks and recommended the use of high-visibility clothing and hazard lights, particularly during low-visibility conditions. Hairolazaman encouraged riders to consider professional towing services provided through insurance or highway assistance channels and to seek help from highway patrols when necessary.
From a legal standpoint, Bukit Aman Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department (JSPT) director Comm Datuk Seri Muhammed Hasbullah Ali cautioned that the foot-towing method could contravene existing road traffic regulations. He referred to the Road Traffic Rules 1959, specifically Rule 119 under the Motor Vehicles (Construction and Use) Rules 1959, which governs the lawful movement or towing of disabled vehicles. Violations related to improper towing may result in compoundable offences, with penalties dependent on circumstance and conduct. Comm Hasbullah urged motorcyclists with breakdowns to first ensure their safety and that of others by moving to secure locations and to seek proper roadside assistance rather than attempting risky maneuvers on busy roads.
The warnings have become more urgent following a recent viral video circulating on social media depicting a motorcyclist helping another rider by foot-towing amid heavy traffic in the Klang Valley, which ended with the assisting rider losing control and crashing just short of collisions with nearby vehicles.
Authorities reiterate that while assisting fellow road users is commendable, safety and adherence to legal frameworks must remain paramount to prevent accidents and ensure overall road safety.