Emiliano Manuel v. Honorable Court of Appeals

Summary

This case involves a vehicular accident on December 27, 1977, where a Superlines Transportation bus driven by Emiliano Manuel collided with a Scout car carrying 10 passengers in Camarines Norte. The Supreme Court affirmed lower court decisions finding the bus driver and company liable for quasi-delict, ordering payment of P49,954.86 in damages. The Court relied on physical evidence showing the collision occurred in the Scout car's lane, rejecting petitioners' claims that the Scout car driver was at fault. The decision demonstrates the application of Civil Code provisions on quasi-delict and damages, emphasizing that factual findings of lower courts supported by evidence are given great deference on appeal. The case establishes liability for vehicular accidents based on negligence and the comprehensive nature of recoverable damages including medical expenses, property damage, lost income, and moral damages.