Motorists not responsible for hitting jaywalkers — MMDA

Jaywalkers are now an endangered specie.

According to Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Bayani Fernando, motorists should not be held liable for the safety of pedestrians who recklessly cross roads outside of pedestrian lanes.

In a radio interview yesterday, Fernando argued that the jaywalkers are the ones at fault in accidents and as such the motorists should not be punished.

Under the present system, whenever an accident involving a pedestrian occurs, charges are immediately prepared against the driver by the traffic enforcement authorities.

In most cases, however, the pedestrian is at fault for crossing the road not designated as a pedestrian lane.

Fernando said that in these cases, the motorists should be acquitted because of the circumstances involved.

MMDA executive director for traffic Angelito Vergel de Dios said jaywalkers should think twice before crossing outside of pedestrian lanes because most likely they would have to bear the burden of hospital costs on their own.

De Dios said that the only reason pedestrians involved in accidents are compensated by motorists is out their compassion for the former.

He stressed that the drivers are under no obligation to compensate the jaywalkers, the exception being in cases where the driver was speeding, reckless or under the influence of alcohol or illegal substances.

Meanwhile, Fernando announced that Metro Manila motorists involved in accidents or mechanical failures only have 15 minutes to fix their vehicles or get them off the road.

He said that after 15 minutes the vehicle would be towed whether the driver likes it or not.