Statement–Argument — Should wearing helmets for both rider and pillion on motorbikes be enforced strictly? Arguments: I) Yes; it is the law and should be enforced uniformly. II) No; individuals should decide how to protect themselves. III) No; helmets protect only the head, not the rest of the body. IV) Yes; helmets are necessary because the head is highly vulnerable. Choose the strong argument(s).

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: I and IV are strong

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Road safety rules address externalities (accident costs, emergency load) and individual risk. Effective enforcement saves lives. We evaluate which arguments provide valid grounds for strict implementation.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Head injuries are a leading cause of fatalities in two-wheeler crashes.
  • Laws exist to standardize minimum safety behaviour in public spaces.
  • Pillion riders face comparable head injury risk.


Concept / Approach:
Argument I is strong: rule of law requires uniform enforcement; selective compliance undermines deterrence. Argument IV is strong because it identifies the key risk mechanism—head impact—and the protective function of helmets. II is weak: personal liberty does not override public safety externalities and legal standards. III is weak: partial protection is not a reason to abandon an effective protection for the most vulnerable organ.


Step-by-Step Solution:

I: Legal compliance and deterrence → strong.II: Ignores societal costs and set standards → weak.III: Non-sequitur (because it does not protect everything, protect nothing) → weak.IV: Medical/safety rationale → strong.


Verification / Alternative check:
Jurisdictions with strict helmet laws show reduced head trauma and mortality, reinforcing I and IV.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Combinations with II/III misclassify weak reasoning as strong.


Common Pitfalls:
Equating personal choice with public-road safety norms.


Final Answer:
I and IV are strong.

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