The Editor, Sir:

Most people will agree that driving on our roads in Jamaica has become calamitous.

Much needs to be done in terms of driver education and the enforcement of the rule of law. Every day we hapless road users are horrified and shocked at the blatant disregard for our road code.

Over the last 20 years we have witnessed a precipitous decline in our drivers' defensive skills on the roads, as well as constant infringement of our laws with absolute impunity. All this has led to death and mayhem on our roads.

Violations

I believe that the time has come for the governmental authorities and the police to do something about the traffic violations and, as such, I am submitting the following for serious consideration:

1. Driving instructors need to be registered and certified as to competence, and be made to adhere to certain standards of instructions. This would debar anyone who is not registered to teach someone to drive.

2. Examination depots across the island should be so managed that it would eliminate the possibility of anyone buying a driver's licence. Exam depots should become an executive agency.

3. Since every car has to be re-insured annually, mechanisms should be set up to test every driver as to driving competence. Those who cannot pass the test should be sent to school to upgrade their skills.

4. The traffic police should step up their policing of the roads across the island and should develop a zero-tolerance attitude towards all traffic infringements. Minibus and taxi drivers should be targeted, since they are perceived to be the chief violators.

I am, etc.,

DERRICK CLARKE

vladimirz1@yahoo.com

Kingston 19