While traffic in Thailand can get pretty hectic with some drivers not adhering to road guidelines, an act involving a man and woman seem to have gone too far—putting a child's life at risk with reckless driving.
In a 4-minute video clip posted by Red Skull Variety on Facebook (8 June), a toddler is seen seated in the front motorbike basket while clutching onto the sides.
Thai Man and Woman Endanger Toddler
According to the post, the pair was driving on the main road. The child was also seen not wearing a helmet, only a flimsy-looking hat.
It was a precarious situation for the child, considering the speed in which the bike was moving.
Although the woman—presumably the child's mum—reminded the man to be careful, she appeared to be entertained while laughing happily at the back and recording the process.
There was "no instinct" to protect her child at all, the post wrote.
For a couple of times, the man was also seen trying to steady the child by pulling on the child's clothing from the back.
According to Nation Thailand, the pair only stopped when the toddler almost fell out of the basket.
Netizens Angered by the Reckless Act
The pair's actions have angered many Thai netizens who left comments on the post, condemning the pair's actions.
Some pointed out that not only was the act extremely dangerous, it was also likely that the child experienced so much discomfort from the wind and dust given that the child wasn't wearing a helmet.
According to a netizen, the child's mother said that it was not worthwhile to spend on a helmet that costs a few hundreds.
Many also commented that the child was pitiful to have such parents.
While such behaviours are not as common in Singapore, there still have been cases of negligence that puts children at risk.
Whether or not parents are the one driving their child, children should take caution when crossing the road and paying attention to their surroundings.
It will certainly help for parents to constantly reinforce the safety on roads, and especially now when the kids are gradually returning back to school.
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