Sending out an SOS

Yes indeed, it is time to take road carnage seriously (Editorial, March 12). But we have been reading the SOS, (not “Save our ship”) stories, editorials, etc. for years. The solution is a simple no brainer, really. Those caught driving while under the influence of alcohol need to be fined heavily, say 50,000 baht, not a paltry slap on the wrist fine. Immediate confiscation of vehicles with no chance of return, revocation of operators’ licences for life, and an automatic five-year jail term, no matter what social level or how rich a driver is. Since legally changing one’s name in Thailand is as easy as one, two, three, and is done often, a fingerprint should be added to the Transport Ministry’s database for every driver in this country.

The next thing that must be done is to establish government approved driving schools with at least 10 hours of classroom instruction plus 20 hours of on-the-road driving practice under close supervision, by instructors who are qualified, certified, government approved. Nine out of 10 applicants learn to drive from family or friends, take the written driving tests, get an operator’s licence and are off and away. Most people haven’t the slightest idea of road safety, yielding right of way, respect for other driv- ers or pedestrians.

Driving is a responsibility and a privilege, not a right. It entails more than moving a vehicle between two points for one’s convenience. However, nothing will be done aside from more blather, and of course blaming most accidents on the roads, not on the people who use them. I repeat, SOS.

JACK GILEAD