Driver in deadly accident loses license for good
The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has revoked the license of a truck driver who caused an accident that left three people dead and 17 others injured in Quezon City on May 28.
In a statement on Thursday, LTO chief and Transportation Assistant Secretary Vigor Mendoza II said the decision was made after Eruel Domingo tested positive in the mandatory drug test that was conducted after the accident.
Aside from having his current driver’s license revoked, Domingo was also perpetually disqualified from getting another one, Mendoza said.
“This should serve as a stern warning that the use of illegal drugs and even drunk driving will never be tolerated and will [come] with serious consequences,” the LTO chief said.
“Let us be reminded that the granting of a driver’s license is a privilege that can be revoked any time once a person defies all the expectations for him to be a responsible and disciplined driver,” he added.
Domingo had claimed that he lost control of the truck after its brakes failed, causing the vehicle to fall on its side and ram into two cars and three motorcycles. The accident took place on the Batasan-San Mateo Road in Barangay Batasan Hills, Quezon City.
No second chances
Domingo tested negative for alcohol but positive for the use of illegal drugs, particularly “shabu.”
“Our [Transportation] Secretary Vince Dizon has strictly directed that there should be no second chances for drivers who use illegal drugs, so [we will practice] zero-tolerance here,” Mendoza said.
He recalled that during Holy Week, the LTO revoked the licenses of almost 100 bus drivers and conductors who were found positive for illegal drugs.
Domingo was earlier charged with reckless imprudence resulting in multiple homicide, multiple physical injuries and multiple damage to property, as well as violation of Republic Act No. 10586 or the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2013.
