Forum: Good to give first-time traffic offenders a chance to learn from mistakes

I refer to the letter “

Proposed changes to traffic rules send the wrong signal to road users

” (Nov 20). While I share the writer’s empathy for victims of dangerous driving and their families, I believe the proposed changes to traffic rules to prevent some offenders from being “overly punished” are reasonable and should not be dismissed outright.

Not all first-time offenders commit dangerous acts with malicious intent. A momentary lapse in judgment or inexperience can result in tragic consequences, but these cases differ greatly from those involving deliberate recklessness.

Although I am not a driver myself, I see value in giving first-time offenders a chance to learn from their mistakes without being unduly penalised, provided they demonstrate genuine remorse.

Allowing the courts the flexibility to weigh such circumstances would ensure that sentences are fair and proportionate to the specific situation. This doesn’t weaken the goal of deterring wrongdoing. Instead, it ensures that justice is balanced with fairness.

Gabriel Chia