Firstly, I wish to express my condolences to the bereaved families that have lost loved ones on the road recently. I, too, had that experience. I feel your pain. I share your hurt.Yes we can solve this problem. The causes of collisions can range from lack of experience, speeding, drinking and driving, recklessness and not wearing seat belts.
In Trinidad our traffic density has increased. Are we issuing driving permits at too early an age?Who don't hear, does feel. Parents that give immature drivers fast cars are buying accidents, cash.Why are we so inquisitive to see if the air bags function adequately?Many fatal accidents involve members of the protective services, I wonder why.
I believe it is imperative all drivers must attend the defensive driving course. I did. I am never in a hurry again. I prepare adequately for the journey.Imagine four people living in the same area would go to the same job site with four cars.Why the hating? Why not car pool? Why not compensate the driver?
�2 Let us educate and train our children and adolescents in good and safe driving attitudes.
�2 Let us have refresher courses for the older drivers.
�2 Let us use the media to highlight the dangers on the road and safe driving practices.
�2 Let us enforce and adopt reasonable traffic laws designed to prevent accidents.
�2 Let us maintain adequate road coverage at accident-frequent times.
�2 Let us rigidly test new drivers to ensure they will not cause accidents.
�2 All drivers must be able to read competently. ALTA is available.
�2 There is no such thing as a "tasker road driver."
�2 Vehicle inspection. Let us ensure continuous preventative maintenance is carried out.
�2 Your battery and spare tyre are most important.
�2 Safety belts must be worn at all times.
�2 Children must be secured in the back seat at all times, not in the driver's seat learning how to drive.
�2 Roads must be properly maintained, not only at election time.
�2 There should be adequate visible signage.
�2 Cars do not end up in casualty after an accident.
�2 People are not dogs that can be refreshed with a bucket of water after an accident.
�2 Humans are not poultry–if the injury is severe, they don't "mix well with masala."
�2 Driving permits should not be issued at "watering holes."
�2 Accidents must not be reported and settled at the above location also.
�2 To those who allegedly dispense false permits to unworthy applicants, how would you feel if you lost a love one in an accident where the driver's credentials were questionable.
Just a gentle reminder, Paul Walker from the Fast and furious, died in a car accident. Ironic, isn't it? The hot chicks who encourage speeding are never laid up in hospital. We don't need any more Mad Maxes.Safe driving is an attitude.Let us all think and drive safe.
AV Rampersad,
Princes Town