Some Delivery Workers Illegally Modify Mufflers and Drive Recklessly
Loud Noise Shakes Residential Areas... Citizens Say "Stress Is Too Much," "Hope They Drive More Carefully"
Delivery riders are using motorcycles to make deliveries. The photo is unrelated to specific expressions in the article. [Image source=Yonhap News]
[Asia Economy Reporter Han Seung-gon] "I don't know why they have to be so noisy," "It's really so loud that I can't sleep."
Complaints from citizens about the noise from delivery motorcycles are increasing. On top of that, the reckless driving of some delivery riders is adding to the discomfort of the citizens.
The problematic motorcycles are two-wheelers modified with so-called "mufflers" (silencers). The noise from these motorcycles, modified to produce a roar that startles people nearby, is known to reach 100 decibels (db). Considering that the noise of a fighter jet taking off is 120db, this is truly an enormous noise in the city.
According to current law (Article 81 of the Motor Vehicle Management Act), anyone who modifies the exhaust, muffler, or other noise prevention devices or steering devices without approval for structural changes, or knowingly operates such a vehicle, shall be subject to imprisonment of up to one year or a fine of up to 10 million won. All illegal modifications are subject to punishment.
For example, according to Uijeongbu City in Gyeonggi Province, as of last year, 71 administrative actions and guidance were taken related to illegal motorcycle tuning such as noise prevention device modifications, so-called "manse handle" steering device alterations, and illegal LED lighting installations, with fines totaling 4.19 million won imposed.
Citizens exposed to noise close to a roar are outraged. Mr. Kim, a company employee in his 40s, raised his voice, saying, "They come delivering with loud noise in the evening, at night, and even at dawn, which causes stress." He added, "Because of such drivers, some diligent delivery workers get blamed."
Another office worker in his 30s, Mr. Park, said, "When they enter the apartment complex late at night with a roar, it is really stressful," and raised his voice, "There must be neighbors sleeping, so I don't know what they are thinking."
Given the situation, the political sphere has also begun to amend related laws. On the 22nd of last month, Jang Je-won, a member of the People Power Party, proposed a partial amendment to the current Noise and Vibration Control Act. Representative Jang explained, "Especially in the hot summer when windows are often left open, many citizens complain about the pain caused by motorcycle noise, which led to the push for legal revision."
Meanwhile, reckless driving by delivery motorcycles, such as violations of stopping, traffic signals, and crossing the center line, is also a problem. According to the Traffic Accident Analysis System (TASS) of the Road Traffic Authority, the number of two-wheeler traffic accidents nationwide was 17,611 in 2018, 20,898 in 2019, and 21,258 last year. The number of deaths from motorcycle accidents also increased by 5.4% to 525 last year compared to the previous year.
Last year, among other modes of transportation such as passenger cars and vans, only deaths from two-wheeler accidents increased. In particular, in Seoul, out of 65 deaths from motorcycle accidents last year, 24 were delivery workers. Among them, the fatality rate for two-wheeler accidents was the highest at 15.84%, and the fatality rates were 4.15% and 3.6% respectively when crossing the center line or attempting reckless overtaking.
Meanwhile, an official from a local government in charge of delivery motorcycle noise and reckless driving said, "As the delivery industry grows, there can be various issues," and emphasized, "We will actively respond to complaints to improve residential environments and ensure the safety of delivery workers."
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