Three reasons why South Africans feel they can get away with unsafe road use practices are:
- Enforcement Challenges: There is difficulty in consistently enforcing road safety regulations and traffic laws, leading to a perception that violations will not be punished. This lack of accountability encourages risky behaviors such as speeding and ignoring traffic signals.
- Attitudes Towards the Law: A widespread disregard for traffic laws and a perception of illegitimacy towards law enforcement officials contribute to lawlessness on the roads. This attitude results in many drivers feeling emboldened to violate rules without consequence.
- Lack of Understanding or Awareness of Risks: Some road users may underestimate the dangers of unsafe practices like distracted driving or speeding, which contributes to risky behavior since the consequences are not fully appreciated.
These factors collectively create an environment where unsafe road use practices go unchecked and contribute to South Africa's high rate of road accidents and fatalities.
