Sir, – The tragedies on our roads in the past week resulted in the same platitudes that we hear so often and which, regrettably, make little difference.
In an interview on radio following the most recent road deaths in Donegal, I heard a representative of the Road Safety Authority state that changes are being made to the drivers’ theory test, an action being put forward as a response to speeding.
I despair when I hear this type of response. The theory test is prepared for with one objective, to get the passing mark and be given the piece of paper.
This nonsense will have no impact whatsoever and will not save a single life.
The lack of the enforcement of law in relation to “L-plate” drivers is a significant contributing factor in the mindset of young drivers that breaking the law has no consequences.
Day after day, we see L-plate drivers driving alone and equally, driving on motorways. Both of these are prohibited under the law yet both can be done with impunity.
If, therefore, a driver can ignore the laws that apply to him or her – where their offence is displayed for all to see because of an L-plate sign prominently displayed on their cars – then the learned behaviour is that laws don’t matter and you will not get caught.
What reason is there to believe that having ignored the law at the formative stage, behaviour will change?
No theory test will ever save a life but a concerted effort by an Garda Síochána, making clear to drivers at the earliest point in their driving experience, that laws matter will have longterm benefits.
As long as the laws are not being enforced then more people will learn to ignore them and people will continue to die.
– Yours , etc,
T GERARD BENNETT
Bunbrosna,
Co Westmeath.