Vietnam - December 15, 2017

A review of Vietnam’s national helmet law was organized by the National Traffic Safety Committee (NTSC) and AIP Foundation today in response to the 10-year anniversary of the passage of the law. The event was a chance for delegates from ministries, departments, and provincial levels across Vietnam to conduct a comprehensive assessment of achievements, lessons learned, and continuing challenges after 10 years of implementing the national helmet law in Vietnam. Particular emphasis was placed on child helmet use and motorcycle helmet quality standards. The meeting also established next steps and objectives for enhancing the effectiveness of the national helmet law in order to continue to reduce fatalities and injuries in Vietnam.

“The passage of the helmet law in 2007 has also led to financial gains, saving Vietnam an estimated $3.5 billion USD in medical costs, lost output, and pain and suffering,” said Dr. Khuat Viet Hung, Vice Chairman of the National Traffic Safety Committee. “However, the motorcycle crash injury epidemic in Vietnam is by no means solved. We must continue multi-sector collaboration and build from lessons learned in order to achieve success.”

The meeting gathered leaders from provincial Traffic Safety Offices, international organizations, embassies, motorcycle and helmet manufacturers, and media. Among the attendees were Nguyen Van The, Minister of Transport and Standing Vice Chairman of National Traffic Safety Committee; Dr. Khuat Viet Hung, Vice Chairman of the National Traffic Safety Committee; Saul Billingsley, Executive Director of the FIA Foundation; and Greig Craft, President of AIP Foundation.