Driving in the Philippines can be stressful. PUVs create traffic by turning street corners into terminals. Motorcycles weave dangerously through lanes. Drivers refuse to yield, and convoys act as if they own the highway. Pedestrians appear suddenly in the middle of the road.
Then someone rear-ends or sideswipes your vehicle. Instead of pulling over, the other driver speeds away. It’s frustrating, and the natural reaction is to chase them. But pursuing a hit-and-run driver can escalate a minor accident into a dangerous road-rage incident, putting everyone at risk.
Stay Calm and Gather Evidence
Land Transportation Office (LTO) Assistant Secretary Markus Lacanilao advises motorists to remain calm after a hit-and-run. Keeping a clear head helps you make better decisions, gather evidence, and avoid turning the situation into a road-rage incident.
Once you’ve composed yourself, gather as much evidence as possible. Take photos and videos of the other vehicle and its license plate. A dashcam can be invaluable. Secure any footage that can help identify the vehicle’s make, model, and plate number.
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If there are nearby CCTV cameras, such as those operated by the MMDA or local establishments, try to secure a copy of the footage. You can request CCTV footage from the MMDA by calling their CCTV operator hotline at (02) 8898-4200 loc. 2108. You may also need to submit a letter addressed to MMDA Chairman Don Artes, detailing the incident and the footage requested.
Visit the Nearest LTO District Office
With evidence in hand, Asec. Lacanilao advises visiting the nearest LTO office to file an affidavit. Unlike a police report, an LTO complaint does not require a police blotter. Motorists can inform the public assistance desk of their intent to report a hit-and-run. LTO personnel will assist with the necessary affidavits and evidence submission.
The LTO can place the vehicle under alarm status, sending a Show Cause Order (SCO) to its registered owner. If the owner fails to respond or settle the matter, the vehicle remains under alarm, and transactions like registration renewal cannot proceed until the case is resolved.
When to Involve the Police
While a police report is not required for the LTO process, it may be necessary for insurance claims. In such cases, visit the nearest PNP station to document the incident.
