No fine for reckless quad bike driver

As far as the newspaper could determine, no fines have been issued to the man involved in the quad bike accident in Louis Trichardt last week.

The man’s fun-ride came to sudden end when he crashed into a palisade fence – head first – and got stuck.

The newspaper could track down the 32-year-old man’s family, who live close by in Waterbessie Street (where the accident occurred). They did not want to be identified or provide their names for publication. A woman, who identified herself only as the man’s mother-in-law, said he was not injured as seriously as first reported.

According to her, he only stayed in the hospital for a few hours, before being released and then returning to Johannesburg. He was visiting the family when he decided to take the woman’s younger son and a friend for a fun-ride on the quad. “I can’t say what had happened or why they did not wear helmets as I was not home when the accident happened,” said the woman. She further added that nobody from either the Makhado Police or municipal traffic department have been in contact with them over the matter.

According to local police spokesperson Const Irene Radzilane, a case of reckless and negligent driving was opened for further investigation. No further details about the case were available.

Spokesperson for the Makhado Municipality, Mr Louis Bobodi, confirmed that they were not aware of this matter. He, however, referred the newspaper to the traffic department, who in turn confirmed that they have received numerous complaints about residents in and around Waterbessie Street who drive around on quad bikes illegally. They also added that the matter is difficult to police, because parents seemingly buy quad bikes for their children without educating them properly on the rules of the road or proper safety. When traffic officials try to impose fines on these children, they simply run away. “We urge parents not to work against the municipality and cover the fines for their children,” was the municipality’s message.

News - Date: 25 December 2016

Isabel Venter

Isabel joined the Zoutpansberger and Limpopo Mirror in 2009 as a reporter. She holds a BA Degree in Communication Sciences from the University of South Africa. Her beat is mainly crime and court reporting.

Email: [email protected]