Increasing license penalties won’t stop accidents – fine drunks more instead, says poll

A NIDA poll conducted at the end of last week gave a resounding thumbs down to plans to raise penalties for not having a driving license.

Thai people said it will only increase extortion and won’t prevent accidents.

The authorities should fine drunks and those who go through red lights a lot more instead.

Some 71% did not agree with the proposed changes that would see fines increased to 50,000 baht and a possible three month jail term for not having a license.

And 67% disagreed with the 10,000 baht fine for not having a license with you. This one in particular would lead to more roadside fleecing by bent cops, people said.

Only 16% thought the proposals would reduce accidents. Half thought it might a bit but 32% said it would not make any difference at all.

Asked what would be the best areas to increase fines 66% pointed their fingers at drunks on the road. Some 11% said fine those who go through red lights more and 10% wanted more penalties for speeding.

The poll on August 27/28 had 1251 respondents 41% of whom drove their own vehicle only, 36% used their own as well as public transport and 22% were just using public transport.

Sanook

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