Texting Taveuni teen falls off moving vehicle

Ateenage girl escaped injuries when she fell off a moving vehicle driven by a student in Taveuni on Tuesday afternoon.

The 15-year-old girl was texting on her phone and leaning onto the side of the tray, when the driver drove off causing the victim to fall on the ground and injure herself. She is now admitted at the Taveuni Health Centre.

Police spokesperson Ana Naisoro said the incident happened between Wairiki and Waiyevo in Taveuni.

“The accident happened on Tuesday afternoon, the driver a secondary school student is the girl’s neighbour,” Ms Naisoro said.

“He picked her up as she had been standing along the road,” she said.

“He was driving a four wheel; she jumped at the back of the vehicle but continued texting on her phone.

“She fell off when the driver drove off.” Police are advising people who travel in vehicles to follow safety measures at all times.

Ms Naisoro said the secondary school student is currently admitted at the Taveuni Health Centre.

“The driver and other passers-by took her to the health centre, “she said.

“The driver then presented himself at the Taveuni Police Station where he is being questioned.

Ms Naisoro has reiterated the need to ensure their children’s safety as the school holiday draws near.

“We should be extra cautious about the safety of our children, as the eight weeks holidays is drawing nearer,” she said. “Accidents do happen and parents need to keep that in mind.”