Forum: Drink driving penalties should be drastically raised
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I was dismayed to read that Yoong Kok Kai, a drink driver who caused his victim to be permanently disabled, was sentenced to three years and six months’ jail (Jail for man who caused ‘senseless, tragic’ accident that left auxiliary cop in vegetative state, March 17).
Yoong was also disqualified from driving for 10 years after his release, but this combined penalty cannot bring justice to Mr Ng Yi Shu, the unfortunate victim stationed at his workplace that day.
The severe traumatic brain injury Mr Ng suffered left him permanently incapacitated and he will not be able to work again. Someone will also have to care for him for the rest of his life.
The penalty for dangerous driving causing grievous hurt for first-time offenders is up to five years’ jail. It is high time that the penalties for drink driving be drastically raised, especially when it results in permanent disability or death.
All forms of public advisories to be “responsible” drinkers and drivers will merely fall on deaf ears if the sentences are not severe enough.
Koh Seng Lin
