As the new decision requiring passengers to wear helmets, recently announced by the authorities, continues to generate buzz on social media, Deputy Gerry Taama has broken his silence to share his views.
Starting from August 14, 2023, motorcycle passengers are now required to wear helmets, a measure aimed at enhancing road safety in the country. This decision, announced by the Togo Ministry of Security and Civil Protection, has sparked various reactions within the population. Among the voices that have been heard, Deputy Gerry Taama has expressed his perspective on this new regulation.
In a post on his social media platforms, Gerry Taama shared his thoughts on the government’s decision to impose helmet usage on motorcycle passengers. While he acknowledges the importance of road safety and the commendable intention behind this measure, the deputy raises crucial points that deserve consideration.
“On the surface, it makes sense,” Gerry Taama stated, recognizing that both drivers and passengers share the same risk in case of an accident. However, the deputy raised a significant concern related to the practical aspect of implementing this new rule. Particularly, Taama noted that passengers of motorcycle taxis could face hygiene issues when using a shared helmet, given the risk of lice transmission and other health concerns.
One of the points raised by the parliamentarian is the availability of plastic or mesh under-helmets, allowing passengers to protect their heads when using a shared helmet. Gerry Taama questions the availability of such products in the current market in Lomé and emphasizes that it would have been prudent to ensure such solutions are accessible before imposing such a requirement.
Finally, the elected representative also expressed his surprise at the lack of attention given to one of the main causes of two-wheeler accidents in the country. Analyzing the statistics for the first half of the current year, the deputy noted that the majority of accidents involving motorcyclists were linked to causes such as lack of vehicle control, disregarding traffic lights, and speeding. Taama emphasized that the lack of a driver’s license seemed to be a predominant cause of these accidents.
