Young professionals - Road Accidents: Need for stricter measures to diminish the gravity of reckless driving

Since the start of the year, the rate of road accidents has been increasing at an alarming rate. There is not a single day which passes by when we do not hear about them. Recent statistics showed that from January to June 2017, 15,037 accidents were recorded including 87 hits & runs. In 2017, there has been an increase of 3.7%. Despite all measures taken, the numbers of accidents are still on the rise. Is it time to be stricter in our approach?  Our young professionals show their concern.

Daman Kumar Sachu : “Restructuring of the Driving Permit Test”

Daman Kumar states that the various measures taken by the government for the prevention of road accidents are failing us. “Since January to June 2017, the number of road accidents increased by 4% when compared to the same period in 2016. It is obviously impossible to completely stop road accidents, but with the right measures, it could be possible to lessen these accidents.”
For him, there are two measures that can reduce the number of road accidents in Mauritius.

“The first one is the restructuring of the Driving Permit Test. The current test seems to be too easy. The level of examining the future driver should be such that only competent drivers are given their driving licenses. The second measure that seems to be much needed is the harshening of Road Traffic laws. Section 123A of the Road Traffic Act 1963 should be amended so that dangerous drivers lose their driving permits upon conviction.

The consequence for the offence of dangerous driving is a maximum fine of 10,000 rupees and a term of imprisonment not exceeding six months. A maximum penalty of 10,000 rupees does not reflect the gravity of hazardous driving. So, the two most anticipated measures seem to be the restructuring of the Driving Permit Test and the harshening of road traffic laws.”

Khoushna Mudhoo: “More roads should be built”

Khoushna Mudhoo believes that in order to curb down the increasing rate of accidents, it is essential to build more roads so as to avoid massive traffic jams, especially during peak hours.

“More accidents are prone to happen during peak hours, as people tend to over speed after being stuck in traffic. Moreover, vehicles should not be sold to those who do not hold a valid driving license. Furthermore, the licenses of those who drink and drive as well those who cause hit and run cases should be revoked. The owner of vehicles authorizing non holder of licenses should pay serious fines in case of accidents or if they are caught during routine checks.”

She believes that more speed cameras should be installed across the country. “Awareness can be created through advertisements, even through social networking. It is also important to ensure that vehicles are properly maintained, too. Speed thrills but kills. Implementing these measures may help in reducing or even eradicate road accidents.”

Dev Rishi Chooramun : “Review trafficmanagement”

The last two decades have witnessed a monstrous increase in the number of vehicles on our roads, ranging from two-wheelers through medium passenger cars to large SUV’s, declares Rishi. 

“It is obvious that the local authorities should review the traffic management in the country. The road network should be addressed as soon as possible through a master plan. Round-abouts should be replaced with on and off ramps and our best advisors are our South African neighbours.”

He reveals that legislation should be amended, strengthened and applied and practiced at all levels in the country, especially through our Police force, who should themselves be properly trained not only to fine reckless drivers/riders but also to educate them and become partners towards a safer road traffic environment.

“The competent authorities should seriously innovate through the implementation of traffic light cameras that automatically photograph vehicles that cross red lights. All drivers and motorcyclists in breach of the law should compulsorily be sent to training classes and their driving/riding attitudes on our roads need to be re-evaluated.”

Ayushi Adarshini Balluck : “Certain cars should not be allowed on our roads”

Ayushi avers that the responsibility of keeping our roads safe lies both with the concerned authorities and the individual driver. Authorities should maintain the roads and find new solutions to counter traffic jams at peak hours.

Individuals should pay special attention on the road, not consume alcohol or any kind of drugs and talking on the mobile phone while driving should stop.”

She thinks that there are some types of cars that should not be allowed on our roads. “There are cars in Mauritius which can exceed 260 km/h. The owner is tempted to break the speed limits which can result in tragic consequences.

When there is a road accident, it causes a lot of pain to family, friends as well as the society at large. Stricter laws should be introduced for dangerous driving.  Young and debutant drivers should be put on a probation mode for three years.

Experienced drivers who commit serious offences need to have their licenses cancelled with immediate effect and they can be allowed to reapply after a period of five years.”