DRTSS warns against tampering with crash vehicles

The Directorate of Road Traffic and Safety Services (DRTSS) has warned road users that tampering with vehicles involved in fatal or serious injury crashes is an offence under the Road Traffic Act.

In a press statement, DRTSS has revealed that every driver involved in a crash resulting in injury, loss of life, or damage to property is entitled to stop immediately, assess the extent of injuries and damage, exchange information, and report the incident to the nearest police station.

The Directorate emphasized that vehicles involved in crashes with serious injuries or fatalities must not be moved without authorization from a Traffic Police Officer.

It indicated that removal is permitted only if the vehicle completely obstructs the roadway and poses a danger to other users and only after its original position has been marked.

“In cases involving fatalities or serious injuries, the vehicle is impounded at a Police Station for mandatory examination at no cost by a DRTSS Motor Vehicle Examiner,”reads part of the statement.

DRTSS is urging motorists, vehicle owners, mechanics, towing service providers, and the public not to repair, replace, remove, clean, or alter any part of a crash vehicle before it has been officially examined because such actions compromise crucial evidence and may hinder investigations.

Garages and motor vehicle repairers must also keep proper records of vehicles involved in crashes, including engine number, chassis number, registration number, and details of the owner and driver.