‘Hard knocks’ motorists more accident-prone

Motorists who learned to drive through the proverbial school of hard knocks – either under the informal tutelage of a relative or friend or on their own – have a higher chance of getting involved in accidents, according to a study made by the Quezon City Police District’s Traffic Enforcement Unit (QCPD-TEU).

QCPD-TEU chief Superintendent Norberto Babagay said an analysis of the 132 traffic accidents that occurred in different areas in the city from January to June showed that 102 cases or 77.27 percent involved drivers who learned to drive “through experience.”

In comparison, Babagay said only 30 cases or 22.73 percent involved persons who learned to drive from certified driving schools.

“Our analysis showed there were more traffic accidents among persons who learned to drive through experience than those who actually enrolled in driving schools,” Babagay told The STAR in an interview.

“Most drivers who got involved in traffic accidents learned how to drive through experience without knowing the basic laws and rules of the road from an authorized driving school,” he added.

Babagay explained that while a relative or a friend may be able to teach a person to drive, nothing beats the theories that one can learn only in driving schools.

Babagay also said driving lessons are stricter under a certified driving instructor. He noted that some drivers who did not enroll in driving schools prior to getting their licenses did not signal every time they make a turn.

“In driving schools, all traffic signs and traffic rules are being taught,” Babagay added.

QCPD director Senior Superintendent Magtanggol Gatdula said that while enrolling in driving schools means some expense on the part of aspiring drivers, safety and security on the road should be their top concern.

“The (Philippine National Police or) PNP can only enforce traffic rules but motorists should also do their part. Enrolling in an authorized driving school will be a great help,” Gatdula said in a statement.

Meanwhile, figures also showed that wearing helmets for those riding motorcycles remains a top safety measure, according to the QCPD.

“Drivers on motorcycles without helmet have a 95 percent chance of getting killed in accidents,” the QCPD said in a statement.

Recent figures also showed that human error – like driving too fast, driving without paying attention, or tailgating – remains a top cause of traffic accidents compared to vehicle or road defects.