Look for ways to help crash victims

AT about 6pm on Wednesday, a low-loader trailer transporting an excavator along Middle Ring Road Two (MRR2) near Desa Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur, crashed heavily into the overhead scaffolding used for constructing the Sungai Besi– Ulu Klang Elevated Expressway.

The collision brought down tonnes of metal on the busy MRR2. Trapped beneath the rubble was a van with five people. Two passengers were killed and another two seriously injured.

The driver suffered fractures to his left shoulder, swelling of the lungs and internal bleeding. All four passengers were middle-aged Malaysian women on their way to work at a factory in Subang Jaya.

The trailer was escorted by a pilot vehicle in front and both drivers expected the other to stop if there was insufficient clearance to pass through. The transport company left the matter to the drivers and did not conduct a recce trip.

It became a double whammy for the three injured victims and families of two dead women after the trailer driver was tested positive for methamphetamine. This may allow the trailer’s motor insurance company to repudiate cover, as stated in the terms and conditions.

Under the law, all motor vehicles must have insurance cover for third-party injuries. But insurance companies include terms and conditions that, if breached, render the policy null and void. These include driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. This leaves many unfortunate road accident victims and families without any compensation. Until we switch from liability insurance to no-fault insurance, victims should not be left to fend for themselves.

The Women, Family and Community Development Ministry could provide assistance to the three injured victims and families of the two deceased. It could also assist in obtaining legal help to sue for compensation.

YS CHAN Kuala Lumpur