AUTHOR Paul Laforest said: “If safety is a joke, then death is the punchline”. It is frustrating that some people turn roads into a racetrack or personal space, which is neither fun nor funny.
Road accidents can be prevented if road users make safety their priority, but it is unavoidable if reckless drivers put the lives of others at risk.
It is our choice to change our nonchalant attitude, but some are too egoistic to be nice and wise on the road, while others are not ready to follow the rules. Because of these excuses, people will continue to be exposed to danger.
Road accidents cause injuries, deaths and trauma to victims, but these effects are not stopping lawbreakers from speeding, racing, ignoring traffic lights and driving recklessly.
These offenders need to face stricter actions and the Kejara Demerit Points System is likely to be the solution to this problem.
Given that there is a possibility for offenders to have their licences suspended when their demerit points have reached a limit, it will make motorists to think twice before breaking the law.
However, we cannot expect the system to be flawless. Even with enforcement of the system, we may need to deal with those who break the law. Therefore, the Road Transport Department must monitor the implementation and revise the
strategy for improvement, if necessary.
For delinquents, parents or guardians should pay the price of their children’s actions. Therefore, offenders and caretakers should be counselled. This should serve as a reminder and lesson for parents to be mindful of their children’s whereabouts.
The system is important to educate the public, save lives and promote road courtesy.
MUHAMMAD SOLAHUDIN RAMLI, MARANG, TERENGGANU