Helmet Wearing - Why Awareness Raising must continue By Christa Weichert

Laos:01 January 2007 Vientiane & some provinces Vietnam15 Dec 2007 nationwide CambodiaJanuary 2009 nationwide Helmet Law Enforcement

Regular police checks on main roads

Helmet Surveys

Take a closer look!

The Reality Incorrect wearing is rampant!

The Reality Avoiding a fine!

Observational Study

Surveys Drivers Surveyed HW Rate Drivers Incorrect Wearing Sept %6% May %79% Source: HIB Helmet Surveys 2006 & 2008

No Enforcement What would happen if enforcement stops? ??? 34% 76%

Motorcyclists need to be convinced that a helmet can save their live >if the chinstrap is tightly closed >if the helmet meets acknowledged standards >if the crash happens at a reasonably low speed Must understand their vulnerabilityTransformation

Increasing number of motorcycles in rural areas Increasing number of fatal RTA involving motorcycles > young riders without helmets >high speed, alcohol >no lights Motorcycle – Truck collisions Shifting Picture

Motorcycle Truck Crash on Road 9

What about Children?

Most children’s helmet are of dangerously bad quality >no foam shell >very thin foam shell >bucket plastic shell >but attractive colours Only limited selection available Helmet weight limited to 460g (MIROS) Children’s Helmet

No standards included in the Lao helmet law Many helmets of low quality are on the market >Bucket plastic helmet >Helmets without foam shell >Helmets with thin or soft foam shell Helmet Standards

Bad quality Helmets

Accept the standard of the country of origin Stop bad helmets from coming into the country Develop own standards Helmet Standards

Education & Encouragement Helmets are cool!

Children & their parents Young motorcyclists Passengers Rural areas > more traditional approach e.g. Mor Lam Helmet shops >sale of quality helmets Target Groups

Campaigns must be more targeted >Young passengers >Children >Parents Nationwide campaigns High frequency Education & Encouragement

Follow the Malaysian model Media must make advertising time available for RS in all programs Education & Encouragement

Enforcement must continue Roving teams > motorcyclists must be aware that they can be caught anywhere - anytime Nationwide Training is needed Enforcement

Motorcyclists must reach the stage then they feel naked without a helmet on their head Remember Changing behaviour takes time Goal

Thank you very much