Bill proposed to make helmet optional while riding up to 40 kmph

MANILA: Wearing a helmet while riding on a motorcycle might just become optional in the near future. Just in case you’re not aware enough, there is the “Republic Act 10054” or “Act Mandating All Motorcycle Riders to Wear Standard Protective Motorcycle Helmets While Driving” that makes it compulsory to wear a helmet while riding on a motorcycle. However, Representative Arnolfo Teves has proposed in the House Bill 153 to make wearing helmet optional.

On the roads where the top speed limit is 40 kmph, it will be optional for rides to wear a helmet, if and when the bill is passed. On the roads with speed limits of over 40 kmph, the riders will have to continue wearing a helmet. Also, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) standards must be met by the helmet worn by the rider.

“The bill provides that all motorcycle riders, including drivers and back riders, shall be mandated to wear standard protective motorcycle helmets while making short or long drives along expressways or open country roads. However, in boulevards, city, municipal streets and crowded streets where the maximum allowable speed is lower than 40 kilometres per hour, the bill provides that the use of standard protective motorcycle helmets by motorcycle riders, including drivers and back drivers, shall be optional,” it continues”, the Congress said in a press release.