Bill requires helmets for rollerblades, scooters, skateboards

MANILA, Philippines - Aside from motorcycles, helmets may soon be required for non-motorized scooters, skateboards and even roller blades if Congress passes HB 4751 into law. House Bill 4751 aims to lessen accidents involving persons who continuously disregard the importance of helmets in using such "vehicles." In a statement on the House of Representatives website, Rep. Narciso Santiago III, who authored the bill, said riding anything with wheels is "very dangerous" and most of the time, people are exposed to various injuries, especially head traumas. He added that majority of Filipinos do not wear helmets or any protective gear when they ride bikes and scooters, or use roller skates, roller blades and skateboards. The bill provides that a person who intends to ride a bike, non-motorized scooter, roller blades or roller skates and skateboard must wear helmets and other headgears properly. On the other hand, helmets must meet the safety standards set by an appropriate government agency or by any applicable international standards. First-time offenders would get a warning informing them of the requirements under this act. The measure also provides for the distribution of educational materials on bicycle helmet use. Repeat offenders, or parents or guardians of minors who are repeat offenders, will be fined P500 for each repeated offense. Santiago said this bill aims to remedy the "vacuum" in the law since there is still no legislation promoting the use of helmets even as skateboards, scooters, roller blades or roller skates are being used. - GMANews.TV