Road bully: Drivers fail to control emotion
SHAH ALAM – The increasing number of road bullies in the country takes place as road users are more likely to lose their cool as they are driving.
Universiti Putra Malaysia Road Safety Research Centre Chief Professor Madya Dr Law Teik Hua said this usually occurred when an individual was trapped in a heavy traffic jam due to the rising number of vehicles on the road recently.
Besides, he said, it might also be derived from other problems such as constant life pressure.
“Road bully cases are increasing but we can’t say people nowadays are evil when we don’t have many cars in the past and less pressure.
“It could be due to stress. When there is stress, conflict will occur easily,” he told Sinar Ahad.
He said when confronting a road bully, it was important not to be hardy and immediately apologise even when they’re not at fault.
Dr Law also advised victims not to leave their vehicles or run away since it could lead to an unexpected accident.
“Most importantly, do not leave the vehicle if this happens, but this is not a choice for motorcyclists.
“Also don’t even think of running away because if a bully chased the victim, we’re afraid that there would be an accident that could lead to injuries or death. Just stay inside the vehicle and call the cops.
“Don’t worry as there are many witnesses at the roadside. If there is a situation and you found a safe place such as a petrol station, that is permitted. This is one of the steps that people need to know. What is important is not to go out until the authorities arrive,” he explained.
Dr Law said that lack of awareness of the consequences and punishments for road bullies was also why many people were not afraid and looked down upon the laws.
He further explained that some individuals considered that the offence only involved police summons and could be resolved with a payment.
Meanwhile, he said, road bully cases should not be taken lightly and called for the authorities to take firmer action and increase public knowledge on the punishment of the crime.
“This case isn’t limited to road bully cases only, but other offences include using the emergency lane until the ambulance can’t go through it.
“There are many cases like this and brought to the court but it was left silent. The public has no idea what the punishment is for the offenders.
“If the offence and punishment are not disclosed to the public, people will feel okay. In the end, this case will never stop.
“Malaysians are not afraid of enforcement and think it can be settled. What’s more, with the constant discounts on the summons, we feel it can be taken care of by paying the fine at the time of discount.
“That is why it becomes a culture in our community that takes lightly of the law enforcement,” he said.
Dr Law added that road bullying cases usually occurred when traffic conditions were critical such as severe congestion.
