RADIOKOP — Residents weigh in on a new amendment to curb road fatalities.
Mel Smith: I have mixed emotions. I can imagine that it would be scary for older people. It has been years since I took my driver’s test. I think it’s a good thing though, because people forget the rules or simply disregard them. Its 50/50 for me.
South African roads are increasingly becoming a danger zone for both motorists and pedestrians.
On average, 47 people die on our roads daily and the department of transport has drafted an amendment to the drivers licence renewal process. The new amendment would include the re-examination of motorists’ driving abilities.
The current legislation in the National Road Traffic Act allows motorists to renew their licences without any re-assessment beyond the eye test. This new amendment is a bid to reduce reckless driving and road fatalities countrywide.
Residents in the Roodepoort area gave mixed reactions to the possibility of this new amendment.
Lawrence Dube: It is fine. It will definitely help with road fatalities. Some people already drive without licenses.
Joe Wiper: I think it is a great idea, I don’t know if they will be able to enforce it due to the bribery and corruption in many of these testing stations and departments.
Keshnie Govender: I would hate to re-test for my licence, it is such a pain. In the long-term it will be good for road safety, I think people do need a refresher. You shouldn’t have to take the entire test though, maybe just something to refresh drivers of the rules. I understand the moral behind it but I would hate to take my driver’s test again.
Billy Buckland: It is not a good idea. I have done the test, why do I have to do it again? I’ve been driving for over 16 years. It’s just a money making thing.
