NPO calls for driver and taxi owner accountability in Vanderbijlpark scholar tragedy

The gap in school transport safety is in the spotlight following a tragic accident in Vanderbijlpark on Monday. 

Twelve children died, and several others were injured, after a minibus collided with a truck while attempting to overtake several cars.

Wheel Well founder Peggie Mars says these crashes are preventable and highlights the need for a national school transport policy that prioritises safety and accountability.

The vehicle was overloaded and driven by a 22-year-old without a valid Professional Driving Permit.

The driver was arrested after being discharged from the hospital and faces 12 cases of culpable homicide.

RELATED: Vanderbijlpark crash: Police arrest 22-year-old driver of minibus taxi

Mars highlights the need for stricter regulations, including age limits for young drivers and stricter safety standards for vehicles.

“We need a national policy that stipulates these things explicitly with repercussions attached, as well as the rights and responsibilities.

“He [the driver] is not emotionally mature enough to deal with the responsibility of transporting children to school. He didn’t have the skill set, and the owner of that vehicle should also be held accountable,” she says.

To listen to Mars in conversation with CapeTalk’s Clarence Ford, use the audio player below: