Public shaming may work this time, given abusive drivers’ track record of recidivism.
Now, the Department of Transportation is pursuing plans to publicly name and shame abusive drivers, particularly those with repeatedly serious traffic violations.
Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon told reporters that for starters, the DOTr is toying with the idea of publishing a weekly list of names of erring motorists.
The weekly list may be called the ‘Do Not Imitate List’ or ‘Don’t Be Like These List’. If you’re not afraid of fines, maybe you’ll feel embarrassed here instead, ” Dizon said.
In the first six months of the year, Dizon said the Land Transportation Office (LTO) revoked 420 driver’s licenses, issued more than 2,000 show-cause orders, and suspended thousands of drivers.
The DOTr warned motorists to strictly comply with traffic laws or risk having their driver’s licenses suspended or permanently revoked.
“We have repeatedly said that the government is simply asking drivers to follow road rules for their and the public’s safety,” Dizon said.
“Your license comes with one condition: obey the law. The LTO can suspend or permanently revoke your license.”
In addition, Dizon ordered the perpetual revocation of the driver’s license of a lawyer who ran over a traffic enforcer in Kawit, Cavite.
It can be temporary, but in the case of severe violations, it can be forever, Dizon said.
Dizon recounted the experience of traffic enforcer Michael Trajico who said that he was only doing his job when a lawyer’s car suddenly hit him.
Trajico said he was terrified as he clung to the hood of the car for almost 15 minutes.
Dizon assured Trajico of the Department of Transportation’s support and encouraged him to file a case against the lawyer.
“Michael, we’re behind you. Don’t be afraid to file charges. Don’t let the fact that she’s a lawyer intimidate you,” Dizon said.
