As a parent, I share the grief of the parents of Ms Phoebe Lo Wei Ling and Ms Michelle Phoe Min Yi ("Jail, fine for drunk driver in fatal crash"; March 2).

On looking at the accident closely, one would realise that these unnecessary deaths were caused by irresponsible behaviour and reckless driving.

All drivers should know that the motor vehicles they are driving could be used as weapons to kill and/or get killed, if not handled properly.

In view of the numerous road accidents, particularly those involving young people between the ages of 18 and 21, the Land Transport Authority and Traffic Police should consider raising the driving age from 18 to 21.

The driving test should be made more stringent, and the probation period after obtaining a licence should be enhanced from 12 months to 18 months.

The courts, on their part, should continue to impose even tougher deterrent fines and imprisonments for dangerous and drink driving offences, especially in cases which resulted in death.

Hopefully, these measures will compel all drivers to be more careful and responsible on the roads.

There are lessons to be learnt from this fatal accident:

First, never drink when you are driving, and never drive when you are drunk.

Second, never take a lift from a person who has been drinking.

Life is precious and it is not worth losing it to alcoholic drinks.

Pavithran Vidyadharan