Three key reasons why South Africans feel they can get away with unsafe road use practices are:
- Perception of Inadequate Law Enforcement: Many South Africans believe that law enforcement is weak or insufficient, leading them to think they are unlikely to be caught or penalized for unsafe driving behaviors. This perception of low accountability fosters a culture where reckless or illegal practices are more common.
- Systemic Corruption and Licensing Fraud: Corruption within the driver licensing system and law enforcement enables unqualified drivers to obtain licenses fraudulently and unsafe vehicles to be used on the roads. This "culture of impunity" reinforces the belief that people can bypass rules and get away with risky practices without consequences.
- Normalization of Unsafe Behaviors and Lack of Awareness: Unsafe practices such as speeding, not using seatbelts, and general disregard for road rules have become normalized among some drivers. Additionally, there is a lack of understanding of the real risks and consequences involved, including limited knowledge of road safety laws and the impact on vulnerable road users like pedestrians.
These reasons together create an environment where unsafe road use is seen as something that can be done without serious consequence or enforcement.
