In a reckless deviation from safety protocols, a VIA driver is now in hot water for brazenly maneuvering around road barricades during a storm in San Antonio. Despite the absence of passengers, the driver will face disciplinary actions for the irresponsible decision to drive through a flooded roadway, as captured on camera. This act of defiance against common safety measures is causing quite a stir, especially with the haunting echoes of a past incident in 2019 which led to a driver's termination after passengers required rescue from high water on the same road, according to FOX San Antonio.
Driving during a thunderstorm is fraught with danger, presenting a plethora of hazardous conditions like severe rain, thunder, lightning, and strong winds that could lead to perilous situations such as, roadway flooding or other debris-related obstructions. As a precaution, drivers are urged to avoid driving in inclement weather, or at the very least, perform necessary vehicle checks before embarking on any journey during a storm.
VIA was initially silent upon being approached with the footage, but after reviewing their own on-van video evidence, spokesperson Lorraine Pulido condemned the action, stating, "What we found from the video is that this particular operator for the VIA Trans vehicle passed the barricades that were before, and after the low water crossing and that is absolutely unacceptable," as reported by FOX San Antonio. The transport agency aims to maintain high safety standards. reminding drivers never to bypass roadblocks and inviting the public to report any instances of unsafe driving.
For those who venture out during a storm, safety tips abound; it's recommended that drivers wait out storms when possible, ensure their vehicle is in proper working order, and keep others informed of their whereabouts. In addition to the standard checks, keeping an emergency kit consisting of items such as water, snacks, a first-aid kit, and a cell phone charger in the car could be critical in the event of an unforeseen emergency.
