No law on watching DVD while driving

21 June, 2007 in Botswana

source: BOPA
20 June, 2007

GABORONE-Botswana law makers and enforcers it appears are unable to keep up with technology.

Only a year after the Road Traffic Act was amended to incorporate prohibition of the use of cell phones whilst driving, another craze has hit Botswana.

Some vehicles are fitted with screens that allow drivers to view motion pictures or DVDs while driving.

This evidently poses more danger to motorists and other road users. However, there is no law specifically banning such gadgets.

In fact, Botswana does not have any law prohibiting watching of DVDs or motion pictures whilst driving.

Botswana Police Service Public Relations Officer, Snr Supt Solomon Mantswe said there is no law that specifically deals with viewing of motion pictures while driving.

Mr Mantswe , said only if it can be proved that an accident was caused by use of a DVD player while driving, the driver can be charged for causing an accident or death by reckless and inconsiderate driving under Sections 50 and 51 of the Road Traffic Act.

He however did not rule out the possibility of an amendment of the Act to outlaw the use of DVDs and other gadgets whilst driving.

Motorists and other road users [continue reading]

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