Road safety group suggests disposable headgears for motorcycle passengers

MANILA, Philippines — A road safety advocacy group has outlined suggestions to ensure the safety of drivers and commuters if app-based motorcycles for hire are allowed to return to the streets.

The Lawyers for Commuters Safety and Protection recommended the use of disposable headgears for passengers that should be worn under their helmets.

In addition to requiring passengers to bring their own helmets, the group, headed by former board member of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) Ariel Inton, said app-based companies may also provide personal helmets that passengers can avail for an additional fee during a ride.

Since the lockdown in March, the operations of app-based motorcycle-riding services such as Angkas and Joyride have been prohibited.

To keep them afloat, some of their drivers have resorted to delivery services.

Angkas, meanwhile, had offered 1,000 free rides to essential health workers during the modified enhanced community quarantine period last month.

Even in areas that have been downgraded to the more lenient general community quarantine, the operation of motorcycles for hire continue to be prohibited, to prevent the possible transmission of the virus via the sharing of helmets and close physical contact between the driver and the passenger.