PESKY delivery riders who weave in and out of traffic recklessly, violating road safety rules and endangering lives, could have their licences revoked and bikes impounded, according to an official.
The riders should follow regulations even as they rush to deliver food or goods to customers, said the Traffic Directorate’s legal affairs division head Major Khalid Buqais.
He added that many riders have been caught disobeying traffic rules and becoming a nuisance to other road-users in a hurry to make their delivery on time.
“These drivers have become a major part of the roads in Bahrain, delivering things such as food, groceries and gifts,” said Maj Buqais on the ministry’s Amn podcast yesterday.
“However, some of their driving of late has been reckless, putting themselves and others at risk.”
Several people have complained about the riders, especially ones with motorbikes, overtaking illegally, speeding through traffic lights to avoid stopping at a red and driving on pavements to get past traffic.
Maj Buqais warned that the drivers must follow the rules of the road, even if they have a tight deadline.
“Every single driver in the country is bound by the same traffic laws,” he said.
“Not only will any violation not be tolerated, their behaviour is a hindrance to people, especially during rush hour.
“There have been many accidents lately, which has resulted in minor injuries, as well as major ones such as physical disabilities.”
Despite his stern warning, Maj Buqais recognised that the reckless driving might be down to factors other than the driver themselves.
“They need to get to their destination as soon as possible, either because of company pressure, or the risk of angry customers,” he said.
“Some are paid by the number of deliveries they make.
“So they prioritise speed over their own safety, which endangers themselves and others.”
Despite that, he made it clear that no exceptions will be made in case of delivery drivers who are bound by the same traffic rules and regulations like everyone else on the road.
“The company and customer are not responsible for any violation you commit, and that is made very clear during lectures that the drivers have to take before being given their licence,” he said.
“Any violation committed will go on your record, and your vehicle could end up being impounded and your licence revoked.
“Regardless of the deadline or pressure, always follow the rules.
“It is better to be late than never arrive. All it takes is a single bad decision and you could end up paralysed, or worse, dead.”
In March, legal measures were taken against more than 200 motorcycles belonging to restaurants and companies.
They were seized for a period of 30 days due to a lack of compliance with traffic laws and regulations.
The GDN reported in February that councillors were aiming to crack down on delivery drivers who mount pavements to avoid traffic congestion, causing damage to footpaths as well as endangering pedestrians.
The Southern Municipal Council earlier proposed a blanket ban on the use of motorbikes and old cars for home deliveries.
Traffic authorities have installed speed cameras on major highways and increased fines for violators.
In January 2021, the Traffic Directorate revealed that 3,885 violations were issued to delivery service riders and 364 motorcycles were impounded.
Violations included jumping red traffic lights, exceeding speed limits, driving on pavements, overtaking and using mobile phones while riding.
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