Story By: Ana Lacasa, Sub Editor: Joseph Golder, Agency: Central European News

Video Credit: CEN/@caromadero16

This is the moment a bus passenger films a driver zooming along a busy road while using his phone for a video call before he was sacked after the clip was shared online.

The video was filmed in the northern Chilean region of Antofagasta and posted online where it has been viewed nearly 40,000 times.

In the footage of the TransAntofagasta 104 bus, the driver is seen clearly using his phone to chat with a man on a video call.

Pictures Credit: CEN/@caromadero16

Transport official Paula Garcia said: “We have been informed about a reckless situation involving a bus driver and we strongly condemn his actions.”

A spokesperson for the National Commission of Traffic Security also criticised his behaviour and said: “Last year, reckless drivers were the number one cause of deaths on the roads. 401 people were killed and over 40,000 accidents were recorded.”

“Among the causes, 150 people died because they were unaware of the traffic conditions.

“We reject the irresponsible behaviour of the bus driver, who risked the lives of his passengers and other road users.

“Driving and using a mobile phone is like drink-driving. You lose your ability to react and increase the risk of being involved in an accident.”

Meanwhile, the bus company has confirmed that the unnamed driver has been dismissed with immediate effect.

The ViralTab page is created by and dedicated to professional, independent freelance journalists. It is a place for us to showcase our work. When our news is sold to our media partners, we will include the link here.