Consistent versus inconsistent behaviour of helmet use among urban motorcyclists in Malaysia

Helmet use is extremely important in protecting a motorcyclist from serious neck and head injuries when a crash occurs. In Malaysia, there has been a great challenge related to road accidents involving motorcycles, especially in urban areas where traffic networks are busy and complex. To some extent, the level of fatalities caused by road accidents has worsened due to the inconsistent use of a helmet. This study examines the differences between those who consistently wear a helmet and those do not, considering socio-demographics, experiences, road infrastructure, psychological factors, and other possible determinants of helmet use among motorcyclists. The study was carried out based on a total sample of 728 respondents, of whom 62% were reported consistently wearing a helmet while riding a motorcycle. This study found that self-reported attitude was the factor most strongly associated with consistent helmet use. The study demonstrated other factors (e.g. risk perception, personal experiences, and perceived behaviour of others) associated with consistently wearing a helmet. The study offers recommendations and policy implication for helmet use policies in Malaysia as well as globally.