Lexus owner on hook for damages: officials

Authorities are searching for the driver of a black Lexus that burst into flames after crashing into the metal dividers that separate traffic on Phnom Penh’s Russian Boulevard late on Saturday night, causing thousands of dollars in damages.

The incident occurred at 11:10pm on Saturday near the Ministry of Economy and Finance in the capital’s Por Sen Chey district.

“He [the driver] drove very fast … [and] after the car was on fire, he escaped,” said Chan Thorn head of the Phnom Penh police’s accident investigation unit. According to Thorn, the car destroyed 12 barricade segments, dragging debris for some 200 metres.

“The car owner has to pay for the damage to the state; one barricade costs about $200,” he said.

Long Dimanche, Municipal Hall spokesman, said yesterday that in addition to being held responsible for Traffic Law violations such as speeding, the driver will be fined double for the damage to public property.

“The double fine meaning that … he has to pay $400 [per unit],” he said.

According to traffic police officials the charred remains of the car have been impounded at the Phnom Penh municipal traffic police station, and an investigation to identify the owner will begin today.

Officials also stated that since the beginning of 2015, there have been 70 crashes involving vehicles colliding with road barriers in Phnom Penh.