RIZAL, Kalinga – Four individuals were injured after the vehicle they were riding in veered off the road and crashed into the grassy shoulder along Nagbitayan Road in Barangay Babalag East, Rizal, in the early hours of Friday, August 7.
According to the Rizal Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO), the four occupants were traveling along Nagbitayan Road when their four-wheeled vehicle suddenly swerved off the roadway and came to rest on the grassy portion beside the highway shortly after 12:00 a.m.
The crash injured all four occupants, who were identified as a 58-year-old male driver, a 49-year-old female, a 40-year-old female, and a 52-year-old female. All are residents of Capannikian, Pudtol, Apayao.
The Rizal MDRRMO reported that the victims remained conscious and sustained various injuries, including abrasions, contusions, and lacerations on different parts of their bodies. Emergency responders immediately administered first aid before transporting them to the Juan M. Duyan Memorial District Hospital for further medical evaluation and treatment.
Following the incident, the Rizal MDRRMO once again reminded motorists to exercise caution while traveling and to make road safety a top priority.
“Always wear standard protective helmets and seat belts, obey traffic rules and regulations, and maintain a safe speed. Stay vigilant for road hazards and changing road conditions. Never drive under the influence of alcohol, as impaired driving greatly increases the risk of road crashes,” the office said.
Meanwhile, records from the Rizal Municipal Police Station show that from January to July 2026, the municipality recorded three road crash-related incidents: one case of Reckless Imprudence Resulting in Homicide and two cases of Reckless Imprudence Resulting in Damage to Property.
Road safety reminder for motorists
Authorities also encourage drivers of four-wheeled vehicles to help prevent road crashes by ensuring that their vehicles are roadworthy before every trip. Motorists are advised to inspect their brakes, tires, lights, steering system, and other essential components, while also checking engine oil, coolant, and tire pressure.
Drivers should always wear seat belts, avoid distractions such as using mobile phones while driving, observe speed limits, maintain a safe following distance, and slow down on curves, slippery roads, and areas with limited visibility. Getting enough rest before driving, avoiding alcohol or drugs, and anticipating the actions of other road users are also key principles of defensive driving that can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and save lives.
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