50 Y.O MOTORCYCLIST KILLED AFTER BEING STRUCK BY LIGHTNING ON THE WAY TO WORK

A 50-year-old motorcyclist was struck by lightning while riding his motorcycle to work, and he subsequently died from his injuries.

The incident happened on Tuesday (2 April) in Selangor, Malaysia; and according to local media reports, the deceased was on his way to work at the time when he got struck by lightning.

Malaysian news site The Star reported that the lightning strike took place along the Rimbayu Bridge in Banting, Selangor, Malaysia.

The motorcyclist was riding along the Rimbayu Bridge on his way to work at about 6.20 pm when he got struck by a lightning bolt, throwing him off his motorcycle and resulting in his falling unconscious.

His body was subsequently moved to the side of the road by passers-by, who called for help, and when paramedics arrived at the scene, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

The authorities also noticed 2 burn marks on the road caused by the lightning strike.

The New Straits Times reported that after being struck by the lightning bolt, the deceased was flung about 50 metres forwards from his motorcycle.

He suffered burns on the right side of his neck, as well as bruises on his thigh and abdomen, and injuries on his chin and knees.

His death has since been classified as a case of sudden death caused by a lightning strike.

Tragedi.

Seorang pekerja kilang maut dipercayai dipanah petir ketika dalam perjalanan ke tempat kerja.

Kejadian berlaku ketika mangsa menunggang motosikal dekat Kampung Seri Cheeding, Sungai Jarom, Kuala Langat 6.20 petang. pic.twitter.com/LT2kZT61RS

— Mohd Redzuan Abdul Manap (@redzuanNewsMPB) May 3, 2023

Protecting yourself from lightning when riding on the road

1. Check the weather forecast: Before heading out on your motorcycle, be sure to check the weather forecast. Thunderstorms can pop up quickly, so it’s important to be aware of any potential storms in the area. If there is a high likelihood of thunderstorms, consider postponing your ride until the weather clears up.
2. Avoid open areas: If you do find yourself caught in a thunderstorm while riding your motorcycle, try to avoid open areas such as fields or parking lots. Lightning is more likely to strike in open areas, so if possible, seek shelter in a building or under a bridge.
3. Stay away from metal: Lightning is attracted to metal, so it’s important to stay away from any metal objects while riding your motorcycle during a thunderstorm. This includes metal fences, telephone poles, and other structures.
4. Stay low: If you can’t find shelter and must continue riding your motorcycle during a thunderstorm, stay as low as possible. Avoid hills and other high points, and try to ride in the centre of the road. This will reduce your risk of being struck by lightning.
5. Wear protective gear: In addition to taking precautions against lightning, it’s important to wear appropriate protective gear when riding your motorcycle. This includes a helmet, gloves, and protective clothing such as leather jackets and pants. These items can help reduce your risk of injury in the event of an accident.
6. Be aware of your surroundings: Finally, be aware of your surroundings at all times when riding your motorcycle. Keep an eye out for potential hazards such as downed power lines, flooded roads, and other dangers that can arise during a thunderstorm.

Images source: Kampungku Seri Cheeding on Facebook and @redzuannewsmpb on Twitter