SENIOR deputy majority leader Senator Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito on Monday proposed to forego of automatic jail term for drivers who figured in traffic accidents.
“But they should be able to come out with initial evidence that they did not violate any traffic laws when the accident occurred, Ejercito pointed out.
Ejercito is pushing his Senate Bill No. 2798, or the proposed Defensive Driving Act of 2024 which seeks to amend Article 124 of the Revised Penal Code.
This would exempt drivers from detention if they can provide dashboard camera (dashcam) footage, CCTV clips, or other videos or images to prove their innocence. The evidence must also indicate they obeyed traffic laws before the accident.
“While understanding the need for authorities to detain individuals involved in accidents, we must ensure that innocent drivers are not unfairly penalized,” Ejercito stressed.
He specially cited a recent case at the Skyway Stage 3 in Quezon City where a drunken motorcyclist driving on the wrong lane rammed an Asian Utility Vehicle (AUV).
The driver of the AUV was jailed as the motorcyclist died from the accident.
“These incidents persist. This will continue to persist, unless we take legislative action,” said Ejercito.
He asserted that drivers who have a clear evidence of innocence in an accident or the so- called “defensive driving” should be immediately released.
“By prioritizing the swift release of innocent drivers and conducting thorough investigations, we can establish a more equitable and just system that protects the rights of all parties involved in accidents,” the senator said.
