RUD Karting ‘willing to work with relevant parties’ after freak accident involving 21-year-old in Puchong puts safety in spotlight

RUD Karting says it has concluded its internal investigation into the freak accident that left 21-year-old Maanroshan Singh with serious scalp injuries.

KUALA LUMPUR: The recent go-kart accident involving a 21-year-old has put the safety standards and standard operating procedures (SOPs) of sports venue operators under scrutiny.

Maanroshan Singh joined his friends at a go-kart circuit in Puchong on Saturday when his hair became caught in the vehicle, causing serious head and scalp injuries. He was rushed to Hospital Serdang and is now receiving treatment at Hospital Putrajaya.

There have been allegations that the victim was not attended to promptly, raising concerns over whether SOPs were in place to deal with such incidents.

Responding to Twentytwo13’s queries about the incident, venue operator RUD Karting said it had concluded its internal investigation.

“The unfortunate driver was given extremely prompt assistance by multiple staff when the incident occurred, and was brought to the hospital by managers for further attention,” the statement read.

“Any responsible media report should be based on facts (CCTV footage, timing data and call history), which we are willing to reveal, while taking into consideration the injured driver and his family. This is to ensure the accuracy of information and to avoid defamatory statements towards any parties.

“We wish the driver a speedy recovery and are awaiting his family’s reply regarding further aftercare matters.

“In support of the verified findings, we are open and willing to work with any relevant parties to assist the injured driver and verify any required facts. Customer safety remains our priority, as always.”

The email was signed off as RUD Karting.

In its July 13 email, Twentytwo13 asked several questions, including:

• What is the management’s SOP in the event of an accident during a race? Was an ambulance on standby? If not, why?

• Were the young man’s helmet and other safety equipment inspected before the event?

• Was the accident reported to the relevant authorities?

• Were all participants given a safety briefing before the race? Did it include guidance on long hair, clothing and other personal safety considerations?

Maanroshan’s friends, who were at the scene, have been left traumatised by the incident.

Twentytwo13 reached out to the family, but they declined to comment.

Most go-kart venues require participants to follow a strict dress code and safety guidelines. These typically require long hair to be tied back securely and tucked into a helmet.

Drivers are also usually warned not to wear jewellery or accessories, as these can pose a safety risk by becoming entangled in equipment or causing injury in the event of an accident.

Open-toed shoes, sandals and flip-flops are also prohibited, while headscarves must be secured or shortened for safety.