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We Survived a Motorcycle Accident in Bali (New Law Could Ban Foreigners Driving Vehicles)
- Jenn & Leon
- Jun 16, 2023
- 14 min read
Updated: 6 days ago
Indonesia's island paradise, Bali, is one of the top tourist and digital nomad destinations in the world, with a vast number of scooters and motorbikes on the roads.
Unfortunately, it has experienced a significant number of accidents involving them specifically, owing to insufficient infrastructure and poor regulation enforcement.
The accident rates in Bali can vary year to year but are currently amongst the highest in the world.
Sadly, we are now part of those statistics, and we want to raise awareness to help you avoid the same situation as us.
Plus, read about the monumental potential law change that will have a dramatic impact on tourists and locals alike on this stunning Indonesian island, and get some crucial advice on how to rent a bike safely (at the time of writing).
Introduction—Why We Chose to Ride a Scooter in Bali
There are an estimated 3.9 million scooters alone in Bali, Indonesia.
To put that into perspective, the population of the entire island is just over 4 million!
On top of that, the number has been steadily increasing in recent years, as scooters have become the preferred mode of transportation for many people on the island.
Scooters are affordable, fuel-efficient, and supposedly easier to maneuver in the congested traffic of Bali.
However, they can also be dangerous, as they are often involved in accidents.
In 2019, there were sadly over 1,000 people killed in motorcycle accidents alone in Bali.
Officially, there are over 10,000 accidents involving bikes every year on the island, although the total is believed to be far higher due to a lack of reporting of minor injuries.
Despite both of us having 20+ years of driving experience, neither of us had ever driven a bike or scooter before.
Jenn had a slight advantage since she had frequently been a passenger on them, which gave us some confidence.
For Leon, it was something he NEVER imagined he would do. They had always been off-limits for him due to safety concerns.
Whether it was vans, trucks, or even forklifts, for those 20 years, we always felt secure on four wheels.
As travelers here in Asia, we are aware of the popularity and affordability of scooters.
We had also done our research surrounding their safety. Bali is notorious for its risks, and in hindsight, we should have thought twice before trying it here, given it was our first time.
Our quiet countryside residence in Thailand would have been a far better place to practice in hindsight (our Airbnb host offered to let us practice on theirs).
But we procrastinated, didn't we, and then here we were, ready and willing to join the mass ranks of scooter users in the beautiful area of Ubud.
On day one, it went quite well, despite the nerves. On day 2, the day of the accident, we were initially excited to get back on it.
It is important to note here that our Airbnb host refused us a bike initially when we told her it would be our first time.
Yet when we were in a local restaurant that also rented bikes, we were told it was no problem.
Eventually, we got ours from a friend of our host, and needless to say, there were not exactly any paperwork or license checks.
But from what we understand, that is a fairly common occurrence here. We were not entirely comfortable with it and knew the risks, but we decided to go for it anyway.
Little did we know, but that turned out to be a very painful decision.
Read on for details on what happened, information about scooters in Indonesia, and things you can do to stay safe on the roads if you do choose to rent one, and THAT potential law change.
Our Motorcycle Accident in Bali—How It Happened
Only the day before the accident, Leon had posted on Instagram about getting on a scooter for the first time, feeling so proud that he had allayed his lifelong fears to try it.
Just look at the advantages, too. Highly versatile, easy to rent, and a way of getting through traffic quicker.
On top of that, here in Ubud (Bali), you can rent one for less than $4 a day. It's a win-win situation, isn't it?
We were fine on the first day, as mentioned earlier, albeit a little nervous and shaky.
On Tuesday, we were feeling much more confident and super excited, planning our YouTube video for a trip up to the Ceking rice terraces, the famous Bali swing, and whatever else we could find in this jungle paradise.
The traffic in Ubud is insane, so we decided to avoid the main route of chaos and take the only other option, the quiet backroads.
We were worried about the traffic (ironically), so we thought it would be way easier.
But... these roads are tight, bendy, hilly, and congested. We felt OK; it was a 30-minute ride, and we were halfway through.
It is so hard, though; without a sat nav, we could not anticipate the bends. So we were going slow!
We were going down a hill (on a particularly narrow stretch) and around a bend when it happened.
There was a truck and bike behind us trying to overtake us, and then as we got past the blind point of the turn, there was an oncoming truck on the road, and it didn't honk (this is usually standard practice to warn bikes).
We had to swerve to dodge them, and then the bike slipped; Leon ended up underneath the bike, and Jenn went over the top.
The injuries were bad, and we were both in shock, but thankfully, there was no concussion.
The van and bike did not stop, but others did. Someone stopped and moved the bike from the road, and we were offered water too.
We walked to a local store a few hundred meters away and called a taxi. We were both super stressed, in shock, and bleeding.
Despite the language barrier, the store was incredibly kind, getting us wipes and tissues, and they even recovered the bike from where it was parked for us.
We left the bike at the store and arranged for its owner to pick it up.
All in all, we had to pay $35 for the damage, and there was no issue with the owner.
It all kind of felt normal, just as it did when we walked into the pharmacy on the way back to the Airbnb we were in.
We were grateful for this, although it was a sign that perhaps they were used to dealing with this kind of accident. The stats don't lie.
We are so thankful it was not worse, with no broken bones, despite the intense pain of our injuries.
It sucks, as we were in our dream destination and couldn't do anything but rest up.
But we are so thankful to be alive!
Since it happened, on the few occasions we have had to venture outside, the people have been incredible too.
Locals and tourists acknowledge us wherever we go, showing such lovely care and compassion.
We honestly have not been able to walk for more than a few minutes without being approached by someone.
Everyone has recommended treatment and offered support and given advice, too.
It is humbling and just goes to show the incredible kindness and compassion that we often forget that most people do have!
Scooters and Bikes in Indonesia
According to the Indonesian National Police Traffic Corps (Korlantas Polri), there were 131 million registered motorcycles in Indonesia as of 2022.
This means that approximately 60% of the population of Indonesia uses a motorcycle as their primary mode of transportation.
There are several reasons why motorcycles are so popular in Indonesia. First, they are relatively affordable.
A new motorcycle can be purchased for as little as $1,000. Second, motorcycles are fuel-efficient.
A motorcycle can get up to 50 miles per hour and can save a lot of money on transportation costs.
Third, motorcycles are easy to maneuver in the congested traffic of Indonesia.
However, the risks associated with using motorcycles in Indonesia are clear; case in point is this post.
Motorcycles are involved in a high number of accidents, and the roads in Indonesia are often poorly maintained.
Always wear a helmet, try not to go too fast, and keep both hands on the handlebars at all times.
And please do not use your phone (unless for navigation).
What to Consider to Avoid an Accident on Bali's Roads
⪢ High Accident Rates
Scooter and motorbike accidents are a significant cause of injuries and fatalities worldwide.
In many countries, including Bali, they account for a large proportion of road traffic accidents.
⪢ Vulnerability
Riders of scooters and motorbikes are more exposed to the risk of injury compared to occupants of cars or other enclosed vehicles.
The lack of protective barriers increases the likelihood of severe injuries in the case of a collision.
⪢ Helmet Usage
Wearing a helmet can significantly reduce the risk of head injuries and fatalities in scooter and motorbike accidents.
Unfortunately, in many parts of the world, including Bali, helmet usage is not vigorously enforced or practiced consistently, mainly by locals.
That being said, it is still a legal requirement in Indonesia, and police will pull over tourists without one.
⪢ Road Conditions
Uneven road surfaces, potholes, and inadequate infrastructure can contribute to accidents involving scooters and motorcycles.
In Bali, where road conditions can be challenging, it's essential to exercise caution and adapt your driving style accordingly.
⪢ Traffic Congestion
Bali, like many popular tourist destinations, experiences heavy traffic congestion.
This can lead to increased risks for scooter and motorbike riders, such as rear-end collisions and sideswipes. In Ubud, trust us, it is madness out there!
⪢ Inexperienced Riders
Scooters and motorbikes are often popular choices for tourists and inexperienced riders due to their affordability and ease of use.
Lack of familiarity with local traffic rules and riding in unfamiliar environments can increase the risk of accidents, as it did for us, sadly.
⪢ Impaired Driving
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a major contributing factor in scooter and motorbike accidents.
It impairs judgment, coordination, and reaction time, making accidents more likely to occur. Additionally, it is ILLEGAL.
Just don't do it; it is not worth the risk.
⪢ Defensive Driving
Practicing defensive driving techniques, such as maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles, using turn signals, and staying alert to potential hazards, can significantly reduce the risk of accidents.
If you are not comfortable driving a scooter, consider using Grab or another ride/taxi service in Bali.
You can even get bike taxis, which are super affordable and have experienced drivers who know the roads and the ways of the locals.
Certainly, you might endure the chaotic traffic if you choose this option, but based on our experiences and what we've heard from others, we would prefer to take our time and arrive at our destination later rather than face this risk again.
That is just us, and we only hope it will not be you!
Potential Law Change BANNING Foreigners from Renting Vehicles in Bali
Back in mid-March 2023, Bali's Governor Koster made a series of monumental announcements that proposed changes to how foreign tourists travel in Bali.
This policy includes digital nomads and expats and effectively bans any non-Indonesian from driving motorcycles, scooters, or cars on the island, irrespective of whether they have an international or even local driving license.
“Those tourists have to travel, walk, and use cars to travel. It is no longer allowed to use a motorcycle or anything that is not from a travel agent.” - Governor Koster
This is a monumental change for Bali, although it is currently still not written into law. As of now, tourists are ONLY permitted to rent vehicles from authorized agencies.
This is particularly interesting, as GoJek and Grab services, which are hugely popular, are NOT recognized as formal travel agents.
What You Need to Rent a Bike in Bali
Despite the aforementioned announcement, currently, from what we have seen, there is little change to what has been the status quo in Bali for many years.
We compiled the list below before we found out about this new law, and as this post shows, things have yet to change.
From what we have seen, no one seems to be aware of it, and bikes and scooters continue to be rented as they are.
But be very aware that this may become null and void when the ban comes into full effect.
Please check local government sources for up-to-date information before your visit.
⪢ Licenses
A driving license is required here in Indonesia, along with an International Driving License, which you must get in your home country.
Even if your rental company does not ask, carry them with you at all times, as if ever you are stopped by the police, they most certainly will.
⪢ Where to Rent One
As of March 2023, tourists can only hire a motorcycle from a business that is registered with the relevant trade agencies or the Transportation Renting Association in Bali.
While there are hundreds of companies that are part of the TRA in Bali, there are just as many informal operations renting motorcycles to tourists, digital nomads, and expats in Bali.
Residents who are not formally registered as members of trade agencies or the transportation renting association are not permitted to rent two-wheel vehicles to foreign tourists.
Unfortunately, we only found this out after our accident!
⪢ Rental Costs
This depends on the strength of the scooter itself, but typically prices can range from 70-100k IDR per day for lower-end bikes (110cc, i.e., Scoopy bikes) to 150k IDR per day for bikes at 150cc.
Prices may be offered at a discount for long-term rentals.
⪢ Insurance
It is important to ensure ownership/registration papers are with the bike at all times, but do not confuse this with insurance.
This is not something that will likely be offered to you, so check with your travel insurance (if you have it) to see if you are covered and the ownership/registration, as it is now required by law.
⪢ Fuel
Fuel is very affordable, and a full tank will set you back around $3 US. All Balinese villages tend to have roadside fuel stands, marked up in red and blue labels.
There are only two options, Bensin or Pertamax, usually located outside of a shopfront, or Warung (a small privately owned restaurant).
Bensin is yellow, and Pertamax is blue.
Pertamax is slightly more expensive but has better quality fuel and is usually the default if you do not specify.
Alternatively, you can top up at a Pertamina Gas Station, although this may be more expensive as it is not self-service, as with virtually all petrol stations in Asia.
NOTE: You will often find shelves filled with bottles of fuel outside stores, too.
Please be careful with this, as from what we have heard, the quality is questionable, it is more expensive, and it is often watered down.
⪢ Police
A good tip is to keep some loose change in your pocket, maybe 80 - 100k IDR. If the police do pull you over, usually, they will check your documents.
Be warned that you could expect a heavy fine if you are not wearing a helmet, but usually, they are just looking to make you a little nervous and extract a little cash.
⪢ Clothing
Most people tend to wear flip-flops/thongs when using bikes, as we did.
In hindsight, we would strongly recommend closed footwear, as foot abrasions are debilitating and very uncomfortable!
Long-sleeve tops are also advisable, not just for extra protection if you fall but also to protect from the sun.
⪢ Back Roads
As you have read already, the back roads can be very hazardous for bike users here. The roads are hilly, full of twists and turns, narrow, and potholed.
Visibility is also low on bends due to trees and overgrowth, so take particular care there. We would recommend sticking to the main drag if you are inexperienced.
⪢ Honking
Do not be alarmed if people honk at you; this is generally to let you know they are there (as opposed to irritation, like in England and Canada).
It is also best practice to honk on turns and blind bends to alert people and oncoming vehicles.
⪢ Satellite Navigation
One of our biggest regrets is not having a phone holder, which we strongly advise after our somber lesson learned.
It is not necessarily easy to get lost in a place like Ubud, which does not have many main roads in and out, but a sat nav will help for anticipating bends that are not signposted and can tend to come out of nowhere.
Watch on YouTube
Join us as we recount our heart-stopping scooter mishap in Bali, turning our dream destination into a nightmare. Scooter safety in Bali is questionable. What a way to start our month of exploring this vast, beautiful country!
Brace yourself for an unforgettable tale of adventure, resilience, and recovery as we share the dramatic details of our close call with danger.
Witness our emotional journey as we overcome adversity, heal, and find strength in uncertainty.
Learn from our mistakes. This story will leave you on the edge of your seat and remind you of life's preciousness. Don't miss this extraordinary account that will shock and inspire you.
Scooter safety is a real issue in Bali. Find out why in this video.
If you enjoy our video and want to follow more of our adventures, please like and subscribe!
Your support truly is invaluable to us, and we will always strive to produce the best content we can from around the world!
Our Message on Renting Bikes in Bali
This has been such a traumatic experience for us, and we are just so grateful to be here to write this post and share what happened.
We do not want to discourage anyone from riding scooters or bikes.
While the accident rates are scarily high, it is important to remember that millions of people use them every day, including tourists, and they are fun and exciting.
When you look at the statistics, accidents account for less than 1% of the total number of bike users in Bali.
You can have a great time riding scooters, and sometimes accidents just happen.
We survived, and we just hope to reach out and implore you to stay safe and take the very best of care, wherever you are in the world.
Have you had a scooter accident?
Please do share your experience in the comments if you feel comfortable, and help us raise awareness on bike safety.
Take care out there!
Where to Stay in Bali
Looking for a place to stay nearby? Browse Bali hotel deals below to find great rates from top providers in the city.
Our map offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to zoom in and out, providing a comprehensive view of the area and enabling you to identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination.
FAQ: Driving in Bali & the Proposed Ban on Foreigners
Can foreigners still drive scooters in Bali?
As of July 2025, yes – foreigners can still drive, but there’s increasing enforcement of license, insurance, and safety rules.
A total ban was proposed in 2023 by Bali’s governor, but it has not been implemented.
💡 Always check for the latest updates, as regulations can change without wide international notice.
What was the proposed law about?
The governor of Bali suggested a ban on all tourists driving motorbikes or scooters, citing reckless behavior, lack of helmets, and unlicensed driving.
The goal was to improve road safety and preserve public order.
Was the law actually passed?
No. The proposed ban sparked major debate but did not become law.
However, Bali police began enforcing stricter rules, including random roadside checks for valid International Driving Permits (IDPs) and helmets.
Do I need a license to drive a scooter in Bali?
Yes. You must carry:
● Your home country license with motorcycle entitlement
● An International Driving Permit (IDP)
💡 If you don’t have a motorcycle license, riding a scooter is technically illegal, and travel insurance won’t cover you in the event of an accident.
What happened in your accident?
We were involved in a serious motorbike crash while exploring Ubud. It involved poor road conditions, a sharp bend, and limited visibility.
We were both injured and required hospital treatment—a wake-up call on Bali’s traffic risks.
Are roads in Bali safe?
Roads can be narrow, congested, and chaotic. Potholes, stray dogs, and aggressive driving are common.
Traffic rules are loosely followed, and accidents involving foreigners are frequent.
Is it better to rent a motorbike or hire a driver?
It depends on your comfort level.
While many tourists rent scooters, hiring a driver offers safety, convenience, and local knowledge—especially if you're unfamiliar with Southeast Asian traffic flow.
What’s the alternative to scooters in Bali?
● Car hire with driver (affordable for day trips)
● Taxis or Grab/Gojek apps (availability varies by area)
● Electric scooters in certain towns
● Walking or cycling in compact zones like Ubud
Will travel insurance cover scooter accidents in Bali?
Only if you meet all legal requirements:
● Valid motorcycle license
● IDP
● Helmet use
● Not under the influence
Failure to meet any of these may void your insurance claim.
What should I do if I have a scooter accident in Bali?
● Get medical attention immediately
● Inform your insurance provider
● File a police report if needed
● Contact your embassy if injuries are severe
● If you rented the scooter, inform the rental company
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Bali is a beautiful place but sadly the traffic is a significant problem that has an affect on all aspects of life there! Banning tourists from using vehicles will help, and hopefully will cut down on accidents like what happened to us!