LTO summons driver who injured HPG officer in hit-and-run
The Land Transportation Office has issued a show-cause order against the driver of an SUV who was involved in a hit-and-run incident that injured a Highway Patrol Group officer.
A viral video of the accident, shared on the Riders Safety Advocates of the Philippines' Facebook, showed an SUV swerving across lanes on the South Luzon Expressway, southbound, on June 6. The driver suddenly hit an HPG officer on a motorcycle, causing the cop to crash near the middle barricade. The motorcycle could be seen skidding several meters from the fallen rider.
Instead of stopping, the SUV driver appeared to continue to drive along the highway, leaving the HPG officer, who was able to get back on his feet, behind.
"Dahil dito, inaatasan ng LTO ang rehistradong may-ari at ang driver ng sasakyan na humarap sa itinakdang pagdinig," the LTO said in a statement on June 8.
The LTO has placed the SUV under alarm status and the license of the driver under preventative suspension for 90 days while the investigation is underway.
The driver may face reckless driving charges. Their driver's license may also get suspended or revoked.
"Patuloy nating pinaaalalahanan ang lahat ng motorista na maging responsable sa pagmamaneho at laging unahin ang kaligtasan ng kapwa nilang gumagamit ng kalsada," LTO chief Assec. Markus Lacanilao said.
"Hindi katanggap-tanggap ang pag-alis sa lugar ng isang aksidente, lalo na kung may nasaktan. Sa mga ganitong sitwasyon, sisiguraduhin ng LTO na maimbestigahan ang insidente at mapanagot ang sinumang mapatutunayang lumabag sa batas."
The HPG confirmed on June 7 that one of its personnel was involved in the hit-and-run incident. They assured that the officer is in stable condition after sustaining minor injuries.
An investigation is also underway in coordination with SLEX management to identify and apprehend the driver responsible.
