MORE NEWS, ABRA

LTO-Abra warns drivers on ‘out-of-line operations’

BANGUED, Abra - The Land Transportation Office in this capital town has warned drivers and operators of motor vehicles operating outside of their territorial jurisdictions which violated franchise provisions. The warning was issued by Eusebio R. Bidalen, LTO chief here in response to complaints raised by law-abiding tricycle drivers and operators in Bangued. Some drivers from the neighboring towns like Tayum, Peñarrubia and Pidigan have reportedly encroached in Bangued.

In a radio interview, Bidalen said in case of accidents outside of drivers’ territorial jurisdiction as stipulated in the franchise, insurance companies will not pay indemnities for damages as a result of the vehicular accident.

He added the public should realize why they are required to transfer rides from the boundaries of the towns where they travel. The LTO chief issued the same warning to motor dealers and suppliers in the province. He said official receipts or sales invoices they issue are honored only within seven days after release of the motor vehicles.

Thus, these motor dealers or suppliers should not release motor vehicles unless there is an appropriate document. The following are the penalties imposed on operators and drivers operating out-of-line: First offense - P1,000; second offense - P2,000 plus suspension of the franchise and third is P3,000 plus cancellation of the franchise.

The “no plate no travel” policy as provided by Republic Act 4136, is a standing policy and LTO strictly implements this. Since the Abra district office is undermanned and is relying mostly on the aid of the traffic management group of the Philippine National Police, Bidalen appealed to the public to adhere to the law.When apprehended by the Highway Patrol Group, penalties are imposed on violators.

For the first offense, the violator is charged P1,128 as penalty with the following breakdown: P900 as payment of the ticket for the unregistered vehicle; P150 impounding fee per day; and P68.00 for legal research and computerization fee.

The impounding fee is increased until the vehicle is retrieved. The amount of penalty is doubled during the second offense.

Bidalen also bared no case carnapping was reported in the province. -- PIA-Abra