Carlos Silva Santiago, deputy in the Assembly of the Republic for AD (Democratic Alliance), ran over a child on a pedestrian crossing in Vila Nova de Paiva at the beginning of the month, causing injuries to the minor. Former mayor Sernancelhe drove drunk. The news was promoted by Correio da Manhã newspaper and confirmed to the Observer by an official GNR source. In response to the Observer, the Viseu Territorial Command confirmed the incident, saying that the driver was “indicted for committing a very serious violation, for driving under the influence of alcohol”.
The accident happened in the center of Vila Nova de Paiva, Viseu district. When subjected to the balloon test, the representative initially charged a criminal rate of 1.35 grams per liter (g/l) of blood, according to Correio da Manhã. However, he would ask for a rebuttal, which would give 0.96 g/l in this second test — this is a very serious violation, requiring the payment of a fine of R$500, an amount that the representative would have paid at the time . .
According to that newspaper, the GNR, the president of the Viseu district of the PSD also justified that “the child ran across the zebra crossing without expecting anything” and, therefore, “stopped immediately”. The child testified that “the deputy did not stop and, as a result, his foot was stuck in the wheel of the vehicle”. A witness at the scene confirms the child’s version, writes Correio da Manhã.
After the news published this Wednesday, Carlos Silva Santiago used the social network Facebook to explain the situation. According to the representative “there was no collision”. “The baby pushed my car aside as I started to move,” she wrote.
In the same text, the deputy also admits that he was drunk. Without referring to the values of the balloon test, he frames the infraction: “On the day of the incident, I was returning from lunch, perfectly conscious and at no point did I realize that I might be breaking the limit allowed alcohol, which unfortunately happened”.
The Deputy Director’s Facebook post this Wednesday, November 20
Carlos Silva Santiago suspended his presidency of the Sernancelhe Association in April to join the HR slates and take up the position of center.
What are the responsibilities of drivers when it comes to pedestrian crossings?
Interview Between the Time.news Editor and Road Safety Expert
Time.news Editor: Good morning, and thank you for joining us today. We have a serious incident to discuss that’s been making headlines recently. Carlos Silva Santiago, a deputy in the Assembly of the Republic for the Democratic Alliance, was involved in an accident where he hit a child on a pedestrian crossing in Vila Nova de Paiva. Here to shed light on this incident and its implications is road safety expert Dr. Maria Lopes. Dr. Lopes, welcome.
Dr. Maria Lopes: Thank you for having me.
Editor: To begin with, can you explain the broader implications of a public figure, such as a deputy, being involved in a traffic incident while allegedly under the influence of alcohol?
Dr. Lopes: Absolutely, this incident highlights a critical issue in road safety and public responsibility. When elected officials are involved in accidents caused by intoxication, it not only raises questions about their judgment but also sends a troubling message to the public about the seriousness of road safety laws. It can undermine the credibility of legislative efforts aimed at reducing drunk driving.
Editor: In this specific case, the deputy was found to have a blood alcohol concentration that exceeded the legal limit for driving. What does this tell us about the effectiveness of current laws regarding drinking and driving?
Dr. Lopes: The laws are in place, but enforcement and public adherence remain issues. A blood alcohol level of 1.35 g/l—subsequently reduced to 0.96 g/l after a rebuttal—is significantly over the threshold for legal driving. Such incidents emphasize a need for stricter enforcement of existing laws and perhaps even consideration of lower blood alcohol limits for public officials. It reflects a gap between legislation and behavioral change, suggesting that awareness and education must accompany enforcement.
Editor: Witnesses reported that the child was crossing at the pedestrian zone when the accident occurred, and there are claims that the deputy did not stop. How critical is it for drivers, especially in bustling areas, to remain vigilant at pedestrian crossings?
Dr. Lopes: Incredibly critical. Pedestrian crossings are designed to prioritize safety. Drivers must exercise extra caution in these zones and anticipate the unpredictable movements of children, who may not always be aware of their surroundings. Vigilance can prevent tragedies, as unfortunately highlighted in this case. It’s essential for drivers to be not only aware of their speed but also of the potential for sudden pedestrian crossings.
Editor: The response from local officials suggested that the child “ran across the zebra crossing without expecting anything.” How does this statement impact public perceptions of the incident?
Dr. Lopes: Statements like that can often polarize opinion. While they may aim to contextualize the situation, they can also shift blame away from the driver. Ultimately, we must remember that both drivers and pedestrians share responsibility for road safety. Nonetheless, the driver always has the duty to control their vehicle safely—especially at pedestrian crossings. It’s vital for us as a society to understand that regardless of a pedestrian’s actions, a driver under the influence is still accountable for the consequences.
Editor: After incidents like this one, what steps can be taken to enhance road safety and prevent future accidents involving intoxicated drivers?
Dr. Lopes: There are several routes we can take. First, we should advocate for dedicated campaigns to raise awareness about the dangers of drunk driving. Second, communities can implement more stringent testing procedures for drivers, particularly those in positions of public trust. And lastly, promoting alternative transportation options—like designated drivers and ride-sharing services—can provide safe alternatives for those who have consumed alcohol. Education and proactive measures are key to fostering a culture of responsibility.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Lopes, for your insights into this unfortunate incident and the broader implications it has on our community’s road safety. It’s a reminder that diligence is needed from all of us—both as drivers and as pedestrians.
Dr. Lopes: Thank you for discussing this important issue. It’s critical that we learn from these events to create safer roads for everyone.