Flower truck crashes after reported brake failure in Benguet; driver injured

TUBA, Benguet – A truck loaded with assorted flowers crashed into a roadside riprap along Marcos Highway in Barangay Badiwan, Poblacion, Tuba, Benguet, on Wednesday morning, July 29, after its brakes reportedly malfunctioned, injuring the driver while his three helpers escaped unharmed.

The accident occurred at around 9:40 a.m. and involved an Isuzu aluminum wing van carrying boxes of assorted flowers. The truck was traveling along Marcos Highway when it reportedly experienced brake failure, causing the driver to lose control before the vehicle slammed into a roadside riprap.

The 46-year-old driver, a resident of Buguias, Benguet, sustained a leg injury from the impact of the crash. He was immediately assisted by responders. Authorities have yet to confirm whether he was taken to a hospital for further treatment.

Also on board were three helpers—a 23-year-old and a 30-year-old, both residents of Sadag, Bahong, La Trinidad, Benguet, and a 29-year-old resident of Tinongdan, Itogon, Benguet. Despite the severity of the crash, all three escaped without injuries.

According to the initial police investigation, the truck reportedly suffered a mechanical defect after its braking system allegedly failed while traversing Marcos Highway. Unable to stop the vehicle, the driver lost control, causing the truck to veer off the road and crash into the riprap.

The collision left the truck heavily damaged, while its cargo of assorted flowers remained inside the vehicle. Responding authorities immediately secured the area to ensure the safety of passing motorists and facilitate the investigation.

Police are continuing their investigation to determine the exact cause of the crash, including verifying the reported brake failure and whether other factors contributed to the incident.

Authorities reminded motorists, particularly drivers of trucks and other heavy vehicles, to conduct thorough inspections of their vehicles before embarking on long trips. They emphasized the importance of regularly checking the braking system, tires, steering components, lights, and other critical parts, as well as ensuring routine preventive maintenance is performed.

Road safety officials noted that keeping vehicles in good mechanical condition can significantly reduce the risk of accidents caused by equipment failure, helping protect both motorists and other road users.