THERE are proposed changes to the National Road Traffic Act aimed at reducing the legal blood alcohol limit for drivers to zero.
The National Road Safety Partnership (NRSP) has commended the move to tackle the high number of drunk driving-related crashes.
The NRSP raised concerns that this approach on its own won’t address the source of the problem.
The NRSP said real change is only possible with a complete approach to the challenge that drunk driving presents.
“As a limit on one’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) already exists and often many serious drunk driving crashes involve drivers with a BAC over this limit, a more strategic and targeted approach should be considered by the government.
“A lower BAC limit alone won’t work without more awareness campaigns, stricter enforcement of the legislation and penalties that should frighten drivers off getting behind the wheel after drinking.
“A comprehensive approach that educates drivers about the dangers of drinking and driving ensures this is properly enforced and punished in a way that real change can be brought about.”
Clearly, more effort needs to be put into stopping drinking and driving.
“Certain drivers in Mzansi have shown that they have little regard for current legislation because not enough has been done to raise awareness and strengthen enforcement and penalties.”
Most drivers are not concerned about what the BAC limit is if they believe they can buy their way out of the situation when pulled over by police.
