THE cases of reckless driving that are reported on our national
roads – often a case of human error or bad judgment – have become increasingly
unacceptable.
Most statistics point to the fact that accidents are caused more
often by unroadworthy cars, buses or trucks than by human error.
It is almost as if we human beings don’t value our own lives and
don’t respect each other on the road. This has also led to the alarming extent
of road rage.
We are so careless that we also want to overtake even where it’s
not necessary. What’s the rush all about? A wise man once said: “More haste,
less speed.”
Why can’t we obey all the road signs and arrive alive?
South Africa is among the 10 worst nations in the world for road
accidents.
In most cases it is either that accidents involve mini-buses
(taxis), buses or police vehicles. These three drive at very high speeds and as
a result they fail to control the vehicles at intersections or stop signs,
causing accidents.
The above statement does not necessarily mean the three are the
only culprits. Ordinary citizens are also to be blamed for reckless driving,
drunk driving, travelling at very high speeds and failure to observe traffic
signs.
I am making this appeal to all peace-loving South Africans: Be
responsible as we are all in this together. It is not the responsibility of only
the metro cops or traffic officers.
Let’s make their jobs easier by preserving our own lives by driving
responsibly. We can’t go on gambling with our lives.
Kids are unnecessarily becoming destitute orphans because of these
senseless, man-made horror crashes on our roads.
Traffic officers should enforce the laws without any prejudice or
jojo ( bribes) so as to nail offenders without fear or favour.
Without any fear, let us publicly condemn reckless driving,
starting with the driver next to you.
Ramapolo Machaka
Johannesburg