TAWAU: A 59-year-old man suffered a fractured right thumb after being struck by a reversing Perodua Viva at a petrol station along Jalan Kuhara here on October 31.
OCPD ACP Rosdi Mat Jusoh said the incident occurred at about 5.50pm while the victim was washing his hands near the station’s air and water pump area.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the 61-year-old local driver had stopped at the petrol station to inflate his vehicle’s tyres.
However, after finding that the air hose could not reach the front left tyre, the driver returned to his car to reposition the vehicle.
“While reversing, the driver allegedly pressed the accelerator pedal unintentionally, causing the car to move backwards suddenly and hit the victim, who was standing behind the vehicle,” Rosdi said in a statement.
He said the victim sustained a fractured right thumb, while the driver escaped uninjured.
Initial investigations indicated that the accident was caused by the driver’s negligence in failing to maintain proper control of the vehicle while reversing.
Police have conducted investigations at the scene and are tracing other potential witnesses to assist with further inquiries.
The case is being investigated under Section 43(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987.
Rosdi urged motorists to exercise caution at all times and ensure their vehicles remain under control, particularly when reversing in parking areas and petrol stations.
He also reminded drivers to remain alert to their surroundings to prevent accidents that could result in injuries or loss of life. – James Leong
The Perodua Viva involved in the incident.
