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Bill requires bikers to wear helmet
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Posted on Apr 16 2001
Stressing the increasing number of head injuries due to accidents caused by two-wheeled vehicles, the Senate passed legislation that would require bikers and moped users to strictly wear helmet.
Senator Joaquin Adriano said there has been a rising trend in the number of head trauma caused by bicycle, all terrain vehicles and moped accidents that are being referred to the Commonwealth Health Center’s emergency room.
In filing Senate Bill 12-104, Mr. Adriano said these head injuries, which could be fatal depending on the severeness of the accident, would have been prevented if the operators or passengers had worn safety helmets.
He added that studies and inquiries have shown that majority of the victims are youths 18 years old and below, thus, the need to institute measures that would obligate this particular age group to observe road safety through the required use of helmet.
However, an ordinary helmet would not be acceptable. SB 12-104 particularly mentioned that the head protection gadget should be in compliance with the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard or is approved by the Public Safety Commissioner.
Specifically, the proposed measure reads, “An operator or passenger less than 18 years of age of a bicycle, or other human power vehicle, or all terrain vehicle, or moped shall wear a safety helmet securely fastened on such person’s head while on a highway or secondary road or designated bike path.”
Once passed by the House of Representatives and approved by the governor, the measure would impose a penalty of $50 per violation. Parents or legal guardians of minors under 16 years old will be held liable for any fine.
The proposed measure, passed by the Senate earlier this month, has been transmitted to the House for the lower chamber’s action. (ARF)
