Don’t vilify disabled drivers over one incident – society

MIRI: The Miri City Caring Society (MCCS) has called on the public not to vilify disabled drivers because of a fatal accident allegedly involving a teenager with a learning disability in Penang on Tuesday.

MCCS deputy chairman Karambir Singh said yesterday that the disabled should be allowed to drive as long as they are fit to do so and have complied with Road Transport Department (JPJ) procedures.

“It is indeed sad and heartbreaking that this accident occurred. However, just because of this one case, OKUs (the disabled) must not be vilified or prevented from driving,” he said.

“There should not be kneejerk reactions which negatively impact on OKUs on this matter.”

He said MCCS supported a measured and logical response to the issue, adding the disabled must at all times be provided with opportunities to be as independent as possible.

In the incident, Ng Pei Ven, 19, allegedly drove against traffic on the North-South Expressway, colliding head-on with a hatchback and killing the driver on the spot, as well as hit two other cars, a van and a motorcycle.

It is said she had earlier swiped three cars before making a sudden U-turn to begin the 5km drive on the wrong side of the expressway.

Police later said she holds an OKU card and had tested positive for amphetamine use.

Yesterday, Ng claimed trial in a Bukit Mertajam magistrates’ court to a charge of drug abuse, an offence under Section 15(1)(a) of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952, which is punishable under Section 15(1) of the same Act and carries a maximum two-year jail sentence or RM5,000 fine.

She was released on RM5,000 bail with two sureties.

The case will be mentioned on May 12.

Ng is also being investigated under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987 for reckless driving.