Accountability in road safety and biker recognition

The disturbing dashcam footage capturing the deliberate collision between an orange Suzuki Wagon and an Angkas biker with a passenger on the bustling streets of EDSA in Mandaluyong City serves as a stark reminder of the perils of road rage. This violent encounter, more than just an isolated incident, is a symptom of a deeper societal issue that demands urgent attention and action.

The repercussions of such aggressive encounters are immediate and severe. In this particular incident, the impact of the collision was not only physical, leading to injuries for the biker and the passenger, but also psychological, instilling fear and distress among the wider community of road users. This extends beyond a single event, reflecting a growing trend of hostility and impatience on our roads.

The Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and the Metro Manila Accident Recording and Analysis System reported a worrying statistic: A majority of the 72,000 road crashes in Metro Manila in 2022 were linked to road rage. This data highlights the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to tackle this issue.

The causes of road rage are multifaceted, ranging from daily stresses and frustration due to traffic congestion to a fundamental lack of empathy among drivers. The progression from verbal disputes to physical confrontations, as seen in the Mandaluyong City incident, underscores the volatility of such situations.

The legal consequences facing the driver of the Suzuki Wagon, potentially including charges of attempted murder, reflect the gravity of the offense. Beyond legal ramifications, road rage erodes the social fabric, breeding mistrust and insecurity in our communities.

In the Philippines, the legal framework addressing road rage is inadequate, leaving law enforcement agencies hamstrung. The proposed House Bill No. 8991, seeking stringent penalties for road rage, is a step in the right direction. This bill aims to empower authorities to prosecute even without victim cooperation and proposes penalties ranging from fines to jail sentences, depending on the severity of the incident.

At the heart of preventing road rage lies responsible driving. Drivers must practice patience and