(photo: LTO)
The driver and the registered owner of the car that hit a traffic enforcer in Sta. Maria, Bulacan, a video of it went viral on social media, were summoned by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) as part of the investigation into the incident.
LTO chief, Assistant Secretary Vigor D. Mendoza II said the driver and the owner, both residents of Quezon City, were already issued with a Show Cause Order (SCO) wherein they were tasked to explain why they should not be penalized over the incident.
“Based on the initial investigation, the driver of the vehicle fell asleep while driving and this resulted in this unfortunate incident,” said Mendoza.
“We already issued an SCO against both the driver and the owner of the vehicle as part of the due process, the intention is to get their side before we decide on the matter,” he added.
Based on the investigation, the vehicle with Plate No. NIO-3457, was traversing the Santa Maria Bridge at around 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 14, when it hit traffic enforcer Salvador Marquez Dela Cruz Jr.
As a result, the vehicle hit Dela Cruz who was then managing the traffic in the area.
In the SCO, the driver of the vehicle was asked to explain why he should not be penalized for reckless driving and for being improper to operate a motor vehicle, the penalty is either suspension or revocation of the driver’s license.
On the other hand, the owner of the vehicle was also asked to explain why he should not be penalized for violating pertinent traffic rules and regulations.
“Due to the gravity/severity of the acts of the driver, please be informed that the subject vehicle with Plate No. NIO-3457 will be temporarily placed under alarm preventing any and all transactions while the case is under investigation,” the SCO read.
“Failure to appear and submit written comment/explanation as required shall be construed by this office as a waiver of your right to be heard, and the case shall be decided based on the evidence at hand,” it added.