Helmet-protected bike rider dies in accident

TAGBILARAN CITY, Philippines — Days after the implementation of the Helment Law and even with a branded ICC-tagged helmet on, a motorcycle rider died from serious head injuries including cracked occipital bone at the back of the head and forehead after ramming against the left side-mirror and the left front portion of the Isuzu Canter truck.

Based on the investigation released recently by the traffic section of the City Police, 33-year-old Jim Vano was travelling home on his motorcycle along Carlos P. Garcia Avenue from a mall to Barangay Taloto at around 8 p.m. last January 3, when he met the accident.

Upon reaching the corner of New Calceta Street, an Isuzu Canter closed van from the opposite direction was about to turn left, causing Vano to hit the side of the truck.

The impact of the collision threw the victim a few meters to the roadside and to the parking area of a store along the highway. His helmet broke to pieces and got detached off his head when he landed on the ground. The helmet visor cracked and must have been the cause of the injuries on his face.

The incident drew criticisms on the implementation of the Helmet Law, considering that the victim was wearing a standard helmet which brand, Index, is in the DTI’s list of products that meet the standards set by the law. It even had an ICC sticker on it.

The driver of the delivery van, identified as Mario Berdera who was from Baliuag, Bulacan, initially fled from the scene. Later that day, he surrendered to the City Police station where he is now detained.

PO2 Rodolfo Sanchez said Berdera will be facing charges of reckless imprudence resulting to homicide.

The full implementation of the Helmet Law was only on Day 2 when the accident happened, and the protest against the law was still fresh, topping the topics of public affairs programs of radio stations here. (FREEMAN)