Refresher courses for drivers

Star: SHAH ALAM: Commercial vehicle drivers will have to undergo mandatory refresher courses to sharpen their skills.
The Transport Ministry is proposing that the drivers undergo the courses, to be conducted by the Road Transport Department, every two to three years.
Minister Datuk Seri Chan Kong Choy said the Government was taking a serious look at the accident rate involving commercial vehicles.
“We mean business, and people’s lives are important,” he told reporters after launching the Stress-Free, Toll-Free Campaign at the Batu Tiga Toll Plaza.
“Right now, once a driver of a bus or lorry passes a driving test it is for life; and he only has to undergo annual medical checks.
“We want the drivers to return (periodically) to ensure that they are good and responsible drivers with good mental and physical health.”
The drivers would not be asked to sit for tests, he added.
“In developed countries the refresher courses for commercial drivers are held every year,” he said.
The courses, expected to start next year, will be over two to three days and will focus on the drivers’ attitude and skills, as well as safety and courtesy on the road.
Chan said the courses would be conducted according to standards used in developed countries.

Meanwhile, under the campaign, 500 free toll passes will be given out daily over five days.
It was hoped this would reduce the drivers’ stress while reminding them to buckle up and plan their journey.
On the Nibong Tebal bus accident that occurred on Sunday, Chan said the investigations would cover aspects such as negligence, speeding and the driver’s alertness.
He also said the Road Safety Department would embark on a project to distribute one million helmets free to motorcyclists in rural areas from the middle of this month.
The cost of the helmets would be fully borne by private companies.
Rural areas were targeted as it had been found to have the largest number of motorcyclists not using helmets.
During a survey to find the cause of not using helmets, the motorcyclists claimed they did not have money to buy helmets or replace damaged ones.