SMRT Bus Captain Uses Phone While Driving, Takes Both Hands Off Steering Wheel
Driving a vehicle requires one’s full attention, especially when one is ferrying many passengers. So when an SMRT bus captain was caught using his phone while driving a bus recently, many people were understandably upset.
Footage of the incident made its way onto the SG Road Vigilante – SGRV Facebook page recently, where it drew a string of critical comments.
He was also seen eating something, taking both his hands off the steering wheel to do so.
Netizens chided the bus captain for his irresponsible behaviour.
He was using his phone while holding on to the steering wheel
Before making its way to Facebook, the video originally appeared on TikTok, courtesy of a passenger who supposedly witnessed the incident themself.
The clip showed the SMRT bus captain seemingly maneuvering the vehicle on the road, with one hand holding onto the steering wheel. In his other hand was his phone, which he appeared to be using while driving.
Source: @painhub243b on TikTok
He kept his phone in a side compartment on his right shortly after and continued driving.
Prior to the phone usage, the TikTok video initially showed the bus captain with both hands briefly off the steering wheel as he appeared to hold onto something. He later brought the object up to his mouth, as though snacking on something.
Source: @painhub243b on TikTok
After eating the sweet, he finally holds onto the steering wheel, and continues driving.
Called out for irresponsible behaviour
Disappointed by the bus captain’s behaviour, many Facebook users commented that accidents can take place easily, especially if the driver is distracted and using their phone.
Source: Facebook
Others called for the relevant authorities to issue the driver a warning for his actions.
Source: Facebook
Meanwhile, others noted that the OP could have addressed the matter with the bus captain directly instead of posting a video of him online.
In response to queries from MS News, Deputy Managing Director for SMRT Buses Mr Vincent Gay said that the company has suspended the bus captain from duty for further investigations.
He explained that, “We do not condone unsafe driving behaviour. The safety of commuters and other road users is our top priority.”
SMRT also constantly reminds its captains to observe all safety and road regulations.
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Featured image adapted from @painhub243b on TikTok.
