COVID-19 Pandemic, Driving Test and Road Safety During Outbreak

Mungmngpuntipantip, Rujittika; Wiwanitkit, Viroj · 2022 · DOAJ

DOI: 10.33492/JRS-D-21-00014

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Summary

This letter to the editor addresses the critical tension between maintaining road safety standards and adhering to public health measures during the COVID-19 pandemic. The authors respond to concerns raised by Bari et al. (2020) regarding the potential catastrophic consequences for road safety if behind-the-wheel driving tests for novice young drivers are exempted to manage backlogs and enforce social distancing. The central problem is how to ensure driver competency and licensing without compromising infection control protocols, given that driving tests are mandatory and exemptions could increase traffic incidents among inexperienced drivers. The authors do not present original empirical data but rather synthesize existing literature to propose solutions and highlight risks. They reference Wiberg (2006) to note that while gender differences exist in theoretical test performance, there is no significant difference in practical test performance, underscoring the importance of the practical component. To address the logistical challenge of in-person testing, the authors propose using closed-circuit television (CCTV) camera systems to monitor drivers from a remote safe distance, citing Satiennam et al. (2020) to support the effectiveness of CCTV in road safety applications. Additionally, they argue that basic safety controls, such as alcohol breath testing, can still be conducted during the pandemic through appropriate planning, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) like face shields and masks, and technical adaptations like extension breathing tubes. The paper highlights specific risks associated with the intersection of pandemic measures and traffic safety. It notes that while adolescent driving behavior has not fundamentally changed post-outbreak, empty roads during lockdowns in Japan led to an increase in speed-related violations and fatal collisions (Inada et al., 2021). Furthermore, the authors present a case study by Fernandes (2021) illustrating the danger of incompatible safety gear, where a motorcycle rider’s loose facemask slipped up in the wind, blinding him and causing a serious injury. This example underscores the need for guidelines on the simultaneous use of traffic safety technologies and infection prevention PPE. The significance of this work lies in its conclusion that driver licensing tests and traffic safety measures remain essential during the pandemic. The authors argue that preventing deaths from traffic incidents is as critical as preventing COVID-19-related deaths. They conclude that appropriate guidelines must be developed for the concurrent use of traffic safety technologies and PPE, alongside public health educational programs. The paper advocates for adaptation rather than exemption, suggesting that with proper planning and technological aids like CCTV and modified testing equipment, road safety standards can be maintained without violating social distancing requirements.

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• novice drivers