LTO issues SCO against motorcycle rider for inappropriate behavior

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has issued a show cause order (SCO) against the registered motorcycle rider, who stopped in the middle of an intersection and directed vehicles to cross despite a red traffic light upon the directive of LTO Chief, Assistant Secretary Markus V. Lacanilao.

In a video, the rider also displayed inappropriate behavior and language after one motorist refused to follow his instruction.

The rider may be charged with Disregarding Traffic Signs and required to explain why he/she should not be declared an Improper Person to Operate a Motor Vehicle, which may result in the suspension or revocation of a driver's license.

In a statement, the LTO said the registered owner and rider are required to appear before the Intelligence and Investigation Division (IID) to explain why he should not be imposed with an administrative penalty.

During the course of the investigation, the rider will be placed on a 90-day preventive suspension and surrender his driver's license to the IID office. The motorcycle has been temporarily placed on alarm.

"Hindi katanggap-tanggap na may isang motorista na manghikayat sa kapwa nito na balewalain ang pulang traffic light, lalo na kung may mga sumusunod naman sa batas-trapiko. Ang bawat traffic signal ay mahalaga upang mapanatili ang kaayusan sa kalsada at maiwasan ang aksidente, kaya nararapat lamang na kumilos ang LTO laban sa sinumang sadyang lumalabag at nag-uudyok sa iba na gawin din ito," pahayag ni Asec. Lacanilao.

(It is unacceptable for a motorist to encourage his fellow motorists to ignore a red traffic light, especially when there are those who follow the traffic law. Every traffic signal is important to maintain order on the road and prevent accidents, so it is only right that the LTO take action against anyone who willfully violates the traffic law and encourages others to do the same.)

As part of efforts to promote safe and disciplined driving, the LTO encourages motorists to be responsible and disciplined on the road by obeying traffic laws and respecting the established traffic signals.

"Every decision a motorist makes has an impact on the safety of others, so it is important to have proper driving etiquette to prevent incidents and create a safer environment for all road users," the LTO also said. — BAP, GMA News