As the new school year begins, students are back in commuting.

Since motorcycles are becoming more and more widely used, it is important to educate students and parents on motorcycle safety.

The Motorcycle Development Program Participants Association, Inc. (MDPPA) shared some tips to guarantee safe motorcycle riding to and from the school.

Know the motorcycle laws

There are many laws in the country involving motorcycles and one of these is the Children's Safety on Motorcycle Act of 2015.

Since most parents use motorcycles to bring their kids to school, it is important to remember that only those who can comfortably reach their feet on the foot pegs of the motorcycles are allowed to ride. The child's arm must also be able to reach around the waist of the motorcycle rider.

Wear proper safety gear

To protect children from injuries when riding motorcycles, parents must invest in high-quality safety gear.

Every rider is required by the law to wear a helmet. For further protection, it is recommended to also have other safety gear such as gloves, elbow and knee pads, non-slip footwear, and reflective gear like vests or jackets.

Learn how to properly ride a motorcycle

Riding a motorcycle may seem easy for some, but it requires correct techniques to ensure safety on the road.

MDDPA members — including Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki, and Kawasaki — are developing programs to provide proper education on traffic safety for everyone.

Educate children on proper road safety

Children who ride motorcycles must be educated on basic traffic rules and regulations, such as proper lane usage, signaling, and obeying traffic signs. They must also keep in mind that they need to hold onto designated handles or the driver's waist at all times.

It is also important for child riders to be alert and observant on the road and identify potential hazards. They must also know how to properly dismount from the motorcycle and cross the road as pedestrians.

With its commitment to provide safe roads for students and children, MDPPA will be hosting free Generation Road Safety Seminars to select schools across the Philippines.

Photos from Ruben Manahan IV, Motorcycle Development Program Participants Association Incorporated Facebook page

Also read:

How to avoid common motorcycle accidents

8 tips on buying your first motorcycle

8 common mistakes motorcycle owners should avoid