Seven injured as SUV allegedly counter-flowed and slammed into oncoming truck in Isabela

· Seven occupants of an SUV were injured after their vehicle illegally counter-flowed and collided with an oncoming truck in Cauayan, Isabela

· The truck driver attempted to swerve but was hit on the left side by the encroaching SUV

· The truck driver was briefly detained but has since been released after the lapse of the reglementary period

· Police are awaiting a decision from the injured victims' camp on whether to file a complaint against the truck driver

Seven persons aboard an SUV sustained injuries after an alleged dangerous and illegal overtaking maneuver resulted in a violent collision along the highway in Cauayan, Isabela.

The accident took place when the sports utility vehicle (SUV), allegedly heavily laden with passengers, attempted to aggressively counter-flow, or illegally cross into the opposite lane, to overtake traffic.

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This perilous action placed the SUV directly in the path of a large, oncoming truck.

According to the Cauayan City Police, the SUV was deep into the truck's lane when the collision became inevitable.

The truck driver, reacting instantly, attempted a defensive swerve to avoid the SUV. Despite the quick reaction, the left side of the SUV violently slammed into the truck’s front end, bearing the full brunt of the impact.

All seven occupants of the SUV sustained injuries of varying severity and were immediately rushed to a local hospital for medical treatment.

Fortunately, there were no immediate fatalities reported, a testament to modern vehicle safety features, but the victims faced a terrifying experience caused by a clear driving violation.

In a situation that highlights the complexities of road accident law, the driver of the truck, who was not at fault in terms of lane position, was initially taken into police custody as is standard procedure.

However, the driver has since been released after the lapse of the 12-hour reglementary period. The truck driver chose not to issue a public statement regarding the incident.

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Meanwhile, the injured occupants and the driver of the SUV are now faced with the legal aftermath. Police are awaiting a decision from the victims' camp on whether they will file a formal complaint against the truck driver.

Given that the SUV initiated the dangerous counter-flow, any potential case filed against the truck driver will likely hinge on whether the truck driver was operating the vehicle reasonably and within the speed limit at the time of the collision.

This unfortunate event underscores the absolute necessity for patience and adherence to traffic laws, particularly on busy national highways.

An illegal overtaking maneuver, which was likely intended to save a few minutes, instead led to severe injuries, extensive vehicle damage, and significant trauma for seven people.

The police continue to monitor the situation, urging all motorists to prioritize safety over speed.

News, photos, or videos that arouse the interest of netizens would often go viral on social media, due to the attention netizens give them. These viral posts appeal to the emotions of netizens, and in rare cases, this could also happen to ordinary people, making them very relatable to one's daily life. These stories are among those that people would be able to learn from every day, and apply them in their own lives. Crimes that happen to ordinary people are also those that many give attention to.

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In other news, a TikTok user was in tears after a tense encounter with a BIR employee in Novaliches. The woman claimed the staff member was sarcastic, impatient, and dismissive while she sought help. She has brought the incident to the Anti-Red Tape Authority after her video went viral. The BIR office says the employee is currently on leave and their contract will end on Nov. 1.

Still in other news, a Filipino crew member on MV Arvia was confirmed dead and the cause was under probe. The manning agency and vessel owner are coordinating the investigation. DMW says that the family has been informed and is receiving full support. The agency honors seafarer's service, vows continued protection for OFWs.

Source: KAMI.com.gh