A simultaneous implementation of the Mandatory Helmet law for motorcycle users and the early warning device requirement for four-wheeled vehicles will be conducted by the Land Transportation Office starting August 1.

LTO Bais Chief Janine Alberta Flores-Lawas said they recently received a memorandum from the national office mandating all four-wheeled vehicles to have EWDs.

At the inauguration of the Dumaguete Integrated Bus Terminal recently, Lawas said they have conducted a massive information campaign informing owners of four-wheeled trucks, especially those who are into hauling business, including government vehicles, on the requirement to carry EWDs.

The devices that are usually reflectorized are placed a few meters before the stalled vehicle to warn incoming drivers to prevent any accident.

Lawas added all vehicles should carry an EWD, adding that some accidents happened because no EWDs were placed before a stalled vehicle.

At present, some hauling trucks stalled in the middle of the national highway are using tree branches, coconut leaves or debris that are usually not visible to incoming drivers, especially at nighttime, she said.

The EWDs are designed with reflectorized stickers so that drivers can immediately notice a stalled vehicle ahead, she also said.

The EWD implementation is part of the LTO campaign to provide safety to the riding public.

Lawas said they will conduct checkpoints and require drivers of four-wheeled vehicles to present their EWDs. Those who fail to do so will be penalized, she added.*MA

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