Literacy test for drivers

Editor: After driving to the office this morning and being subjected to at least three ”bad drives” I wondered what really can we do to makes things better. Apart from greater, more vigilant and efficient traffic police and perhaps the introduction of electronic devices, there is one thing that we should implement. All new driver permit applicants should be required to undergo a literacy test. Not just reading and writing, but also comprehension. As well as an IQ test with a minimum passing score mandatory before a learner’s permit is issued. Only in this way can we be assured that drivers can read and understand traffic signs and signals. Not just learn the learners’ booklet like a parrot and then discard it after they have passed their test and a driver’s licence is issued. Perhaps the Traffic Department will take this recommendation to heart and do something about revising the requirements for obtaining a learner’s permit.

DAVID L MARTIN
Maraval