Recent road accidents involving the death of school children have raised questions about the road safety in South Africa.
The question could be, are school children’s safety compromised by utilising private transport?
On 3 February, a child died and 18 others were injured, and 15 of them critically, in an accident in Pyramid in Pretoria, while 13 children were injured in Alberton on 2 February.
In KwaZulu-Natal, three separate road accidents involving learners occurred.
The fatalities of children in motor vehicle accidents are at an all time high.
It is imperative that we as the public educate ourselves with regard to the safety of our youth.
Peggie Mars, founder of Wheel Well commented, “As a parent you are not always in control of the transport that your child uses during their school careers. What you are in control of is what you teach your child and lead by example. Make sure your children know how special they are and teach them passenger etiquette. That is: Sit quietly while the driver is driving, do not engage in disruptive and distracting behaviour, and use your seat belt.”
Soccermoms is a private transport company that specialises in transporting school children.
They have three categories of drivers which differ in price range.
- Category A, a driver with a normal licence.
- Category B, a driver who is 21years old and up.
- Category C, a driver who is over 21 years old with a PDP licence.
Angelo’s Bus Service Kids Shuttle drivers all own PDP licences with lengthy driving experience with an annual roadworthy test as well as satellite tracking.
It is imperative that you ensure that every driver of a company you choose to use has a Professional Driver’s Permit (PDP).
It is also advised that the driver should have at least two or more years of driving experience to ensure that the driver has enough experience.
Details: Wheel Well, Peggie Mars www.wheelwell.co.za or peggie@wheelwell.co.za or www.soccermom.co.za or
Angelo’s Bus Service Kids Shuttle, 082 907 5453.
