Courtesy: BFP Basey Samar
A TRAGIC accident in Basey, Samar, has claimed the lives of four individuals after a UV Express van collided with a parked 10-wheeler truck. The force of the impact was so severe that the van’s windshield was dislodged, and one passenger was ejected from the vehicle. The deceased include the van driver, while other passengers are currently receiving medical treatment at a local hospital.
Initial reports indicate that the UV Express van drove straight into the parked truck, suggesting a possible lapse in driver awareness or a mechanical failure. Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the accident to determine the exact circumstances leading up to the collision. The incident has prompted immediate action from the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), which has suspended the franchise of the UV Express operator for a period of 30 days.
The suspension means that all units operated by the franchise holder will be prohibited from operating during the suspension period. In addition to the suspension, the LTFRB has mandated that all drivers employed by the operator undergo mandatory drug testing and attend a road safety seminar. These measures are aimed at ensuring that drivers are fit to operate public utility vehicles and are fully aware of road safety regulations.
The LTFRB has also confirmed that the operator of the UV Express has already reached out to the families of the deceased and injured passengers to provide assistance. This includes financial support for medical expenses and funeral arrangements. The tragic accident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety and the need for both drivers and operators to prioritize the safety of passengers at all times.
