Take the road out of perdition
Transport unions continue to demand the rollback of new provisions for hit-and-run accidents, even as GoI has assured striking bus, truck and tanker drivers that the new provisions will not be implemented without further consultation. Sure, GoI must hear out the protesters.
It must ensure easier reporting of accidents and take measures to reduce road accidents. However, let it put the brakes on any rollback on the higher penalties.
A subset of road traffic accidents caused by collision, hit-and-run refers to accidents in which the perpetrator leaves the scene without informing relevant authorities or calling for help.
This is a serious offence, as timely medical attention can prevent deaths. The tougher penalty is called for because the perpetrator fails to take responsibility for his or her actions.
Given the disregard for consequences and grievous harm caused, increasing prison time from two to 10 years and increased fines to be paid by the perpetrator driver must be welcomed as a de jure disincentive that can be a de facto one.
The 2022 Road Accidents in India reports that hit-and-run accidents increased by 17.5% from 2021 to 2022. GoI must remedy the causes of increased collision accidents — 461,312 in 2022 compared to 412,432 in 2021 — that includes poor road design, signage and lighting, lack of pedestrian infrastructures such as sidewalks, and disregard of basic traffic norms that contribute heavily to rising numbers of collision accidents.
Authorities must create systems to make it possible for drivers to report accidents and ensure that waiting for police and help to arrive does not expose them to 'rough and ready' justice. Enabling drivers to do the right thing is as important as punishing those who refuse
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