‘Am I obligated to help a jaywalker I hit on the road?’ [Newbie Guide]

For most people, driving in the Philippines is already stressful enough having to deal with changing traffic rules, opportunistic traffic enforcers, and roads in a constant state of disrepair. Adding an extra layer of difficulty are erring road users, especially reckless motorists and pedestrians.

Not every pedestrian is aware that they should using the crosswalk

Imagine cruising along a stretch of road with unusually light traffic, where you’re actually making good time en route to your destination. But then, a jaywalking pedestrian suddenly appears from your blind side, and you’re not able to react fast enough to avoid making contact. Next thing you know, the jaywalker is already on the ground, writhing in pain from the impact.

Assuming that the pedestrian didn’t use the proper crosswalk or had no business being there in the first place (as on an expressway), it’s not an excuse to ignore someone in need of assistance. This is based on Republic Act 4136, also known as the Land Transportation and Traffic Code.

A specific provision in that law, Section 55, mentions your duty as motorists in the event that an accident is caused by your driving:

In the event that any accident should occur as the result of the operation of a motor vehicle upon a highway, the driver present, shall show his driver’s license, give his true name and address and also the true name and address of the owner of the motor vehicle.

In addition, you’re not supposed to leave your victim behind at the scene of the accident. There are several exceptions to this rule, however:

• If your life is threatened by the other person as a result of the accident
• If you report the accident to the nearest law officer or enforcer
• If you need to get medical help for the victim

Remember that viral video of the SUV running over the mall security guard manning traffic? That’s a classic example. Assuming that the security guard was armed as part of his duties, he was not acting in a threatening manner as to place the SUV driver’s life in danger, so the latter still had the responsibility to stop and render assistance.

Not a situation you would want to deal with when you're behind the wheel

Always remember that getting behind the wheel of a vehicle automatically means that you’re placing lives in your hands, whether it’s yours, your passengers’, or everyone else on the road. Handle that responsibility with care worthy of your license.

Find more tips for beginner car owners at Philkotse.com.