Dear Mabs
I am writing to express my concern as a driver and citizen about a disturbing trend that has been growing over the past few months. I have noticed an increase in people shooting videos while driving. While I understand that we live in a content-driven society, I believe that there must be a limit to what we can do while driving. I have seen some of my closest friends and family members engage in this dangerous behaviour, but I am unsure how to approach them without sounding judgmental.
I kindly request that you use your platform to raise awareness about this dangerous trend and emphasize its risks. Hopefully, your message will reach a broader audience and encourage people to stop this behaviour.
Mabs Answers:
The use of a mobile phone while driving has got to be one of the most dangerous things to do. It is one of my pet peeves. I understand that we live in times of constant connectivity, where every moment counts.
But, on the same breath, we live in a country with an unacceptably high number of road fatalities. Unfortunately, these are caused by humans who operate vehicles while their attention is elsewhere.
The South African Road Traffic Act forbids drivers from using a mobile phone or other electronic devices while driving and you pay a hefty fine when you are caught using equipment such as microphones and cameras while driving.
Driving while distracted can be more dangerous than drunk driving and it takes a split second to get into an accident. If people must absolutely go live or record content, simply find a safe spot, park and then do your thing.
With the Easter break around the corner, please let us all practice safer behavior on our roads and save lives.
