Share

Reader responds: SA young drivers

Earlier in March 2013 we reported that Goodyear’s annual 2013 road safety survey revealed youth in South Africa were among the “most aggressive”  and “easily distracted” drivers in the world.

Rules, it seems, are there to be broken, at least by many young South Africans, as the survey reveals that driver attitude could be a contributing factor to the distressing number of road deaths.

THE NEED FOR SPEED

The survey assessed the behaviour of 6400 drivers under the age of 25 in 16 countries. South African respondents ranked highest in admitting to an improper estimation of speed of traffic when changing lanes or overtaking (59% vs global 43%) and, even more frighteningly, topped the charts at disobeying traffic signals or signs (62% vs global 39%).

Wheels24 reader FIONA SEEDAT shares her thoughts on the state of young SA drivers:

"My experience of the driving ability of one particular young driver is absolute and utter shock that she managed to pass her driving test. Or perhaps daddy bought her this to go along with the white BMW sedan she was driving? First she almost pushed me into the curb when she realized she should be in the turning lane and not going straight.

In the Benmore Mall parking area, a few minutes later she clearly did not notice me indicating to turn into a parking space and almost drove into the side of my car, perhaps I was too slow and in her way because I waited for a car to reverse out of the parking bay I wanted?

PARKING FAUX PAS

The cherry on the cake was when she backed into the car parked behind her, totally oblivious to this fact.

She got out, giggling and chatting to her two friends and proceeded to laugh even harder when she saw what she had done. Luckily there was no damage to the other vehicle when she corrected her parking faux pas. I shudder to think of driving next to such skilled drivers after they have had a glass or two of wine or some cocktails after a night out.

Especially if driving well is something they obviously cannot do when sober and in broad daylight.

I would agree with this survey however the same can be said for all SA drivers. Aggression, rude gestures, blaring horns, obscenities shouted are not only actions of young SA drivers but all age and race groups demonstrate these qualities when driving.

Rules, it seems, are definitely meant to be broken by many SA drivers."

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE