We are tired that every time a biker crashes into a road barrier in Malta, they lose their life. It feels like our roads have become death traps for bikers. The issue lies not just in the accidents themselves, but in the barriers that are supposed to protect us. These barriers are poorly designed and pose lethal risks to motorcyclists.

Motorcycle riders are extremely vulnerable, and road barriers can mean the difference between life and death in an accident. Research from various safety organizations shows that appropriate barriers can significantly reduce fatalities. The World Health Organization (WHO) notes that road traffic crashes are the leading cause of death for young people aged 21-45. Malta must not contribute to these statistics due to inadequate infrastructure.

We demand action from the Maltese government to mandatorily install bottom shields on all road barriers. These shields will prevent motorcyclists from sliding under the barriers during accidents, a leading cause of severe injuries and fatalities.

Installing bottom shields is not just a safety measure, but an urgent need. Other countries have successfully implemented similar measures and noted a marked decrease in motorcycle-related fatalities. Following their examples, Malta can enhance biker safety without waiting for another tragic incident to serve as a wake-up call.

SOLUTIONS-

solutions to minimize fatalities. One promising approach is the recycling and repurposing of used and expired tyres to construct roller barriers. These barriers are not only environmentally responsible but also significantly enhance safety on the roads.

Traditional road barriers often fail to adequately absorb the impact during collisions, resulting in devastating consequences. Roller barriers, crafted from recycled tyres, provide a flexible and more absorbent option. This design can substantially mitigate the force of impacts, effectively reducing injuries and preventing deaths. Moreover, the integration of bottom shields and enclosing the top of these barriers with a flat shield strengthens their capacity to contain vehicles during an accident, thereby enhancing overall road safety.

We call upon the authorities and relevant departments in Malta to prioritize the safety of motorcycle riders. It is time to invest in infrastructure updates that save lives and to respond to this critical issue with the urgency it demands.

Please sign the petition and help us make Malta's roads safer for everyone.