THE Land Transportation Office (LTO) has summoned the driver and registered owner of a vehicle involved in an incident that injured a traffic enforcer in Sta. Maria, Bulacan. The accident, which occurred on Tuesday, January 14, was captured on video and has since gone viral on social media.
LTO Chief Assistant Secretary Atty. Vigor D. Mendoza II confirmed that a Show Cause Order (SCO) has been issued to both the driver and the owner of the Toyota Avanza (Plate No. NIO-3457). They were instructed to submit a written explanation as to why they should not be held liable for the incident that left traffic enforcer Salvador Marquez Dela Cruz Jr. injured.
“Based on the initial investigation, the driver of the vehicle fell asleep while driving, which led to this unfortunate incident,” said Mendoza. “The SCO is part of due process, allowing both the driver and the vehicle owner to present their side before a decision is made.”
Details of the Incident
The accident occurred around 10:30 a.m. while the vehicle was traversing the Santa Maria Bridge en route to Barangay Bagbaguin. Dela Cruz, who was managing traffic in the area, was hit by the vehicle.
The LTO-Intelligence and Investigation Division, led by chief Renante Melitante, has asked the driver to explain why he should not be penalized for reckless driving and for being unfit to operate a motor vehicle. Possible penalties include the suspension or revocation of the driver’s license.
Similarly, the vehicle owner must explain why they should not face penalties for violations of traffic rules and regulations.
Temporary Alarm on Vehicle
The LTO has placed the vehicle under a temporary alarm, preventing any transactions involving it while the case is under investigation.
“Failure to appear and submit a written explanation will be construed as a waiver of the right to be heard, and the case will be decided based on available evidence,” the SCO stated.
LTO’s Call for Road Safety
Assistant Secretary Mendoza reminded drivers to take necessary precautions to ensure the safety of all road users, emphasizing the importance of the LTO’s nationwide “Stop Road Crash” campaign.
“Road safety is a shared responsibility. Let this serve as a reminder to all drivers to remain vigilant and responsible at all times,” Mendoza said.
The case remains under investigation as authorities await responses from the driver and vehicle owner.