A file photo of a blue light convoy. Picture: Jeffrey Abrahams A file photo of a blue light convoy. Picture: Jeffrey Abrahams
LETTER - On January 11 I was on my way to Suncoast when, at high speed, appears a Range Rover with blue and bright lights flashing, signalling that I must get out of his way.
I could not easily manoeuvre into the slow lane as there was traffic in both lanes.
Other motorists created a gap so I could move and allow the blue light brigade to pass. They continued without the slightest semblance of courtesy, believing they were a power unto themselves.
Other motorists were also steamrollered out the way.
Why do officials travelling in huge jalopies paid for by the taxpayer need to be so arrogant? They disrespect all the regulations of the National Traffic Act while endangering the lives of other motorists.
My inclination was that it was some official rushing to Moses Mabhida Stadium for a pre-manifesto party.
Then along came traffic police on motorcycles, waving frantically to motorists to get out the way.
This high-handed, obnoxious behaviour left motorists disorientated as they could not fathom what was happening.
Some put their hands out their windows, gesticulating their frustration.
This uncalled for dangerous driving has caused accidents, killing and maiming people. There has been a public outcry denouncing the actions of the blue light brigade, with promises from the relevant authorities to take swift action, but all these discussions are mere shop talk with no action taken.
Officials who travel in expensive vehicles courtesy of the overburdened taxpayer should have proper time management, which means leaving in a comfortable time to honour engagements.
Another solution is for the official being chauffeured to caution the driver against unorthodox driving that could endanger other road users.
Let’s be positive that in the near future there will be some regulation forcing the drivers of the blue light brigades to adhere to the laws of the road.
In the interim move over to the slow lane when you see blue lights in your review mirror, because in the real world, according to a famous poet, some animals are more equal than others.