SERIAN – A woman sustained injuries after becoming trapped in the driver’s seat during a self-driving car accident at Simpang Rasau, along Jalan Serian-Balai Ringin, early this morning.
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The Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department’s Operations Centre received an emergency call at 6.22am, alerting them to the incident. A team from the Serian Fire and Rescue Station (BBP Serian), located about 10 kilometres from the scene, was immediately dispatched to provide assistance.
Upon arrival at 6.33am, rescue personnel discovered the woman conscious but pinned in the driver’s seat, with visible injuries to her head. It was understood that the impact of the accident had caused the driver’s side of the vehicle to crumple, trapping her in place.
Led by PBK I Nasihin Jaum, the rescue team worked swiftly to free the victim. Using hydraulic rescue tools, the operation to extricate her was successfully completed within minutes, at around 6.38am.
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Once freed, the victim was handed over to the Emergency Medical Rescue Services (EMRS) team on site for immediate medical attention. She was then transported to Serian Hospital for further treatment.
The cause of the accident involving the self-driving car has yet to be confirmed, with investigations expected to be carried out by the relevant authorities. Incidents involving autonomous vehicles remain rare in Sarawak, but this case has sparked concerns about safety measures and driver attentiveness, even when technology is in control.
Members of the public are reminded to remain vigilant on the road, ensure regular vehicle maintenance, and understand the operational limits of self-driving systems to prevent similar incidents.
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