KUALA LUMPUR: Special courts dedicated to handling road accident cases, particularly those involving deaths and serious injuries, are needed to ensure swifter justice for victims and their families says Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye (pic).
Lee, a member of the Road Safety Council, said such cases often take years to resolve due to court congestion and procedural delays, placing an added burden on those affected.
"Justice delayed is justice denied," he said when contacted on Thursday (April 2).
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Lee stressed that there is a strong case for setting up Special Road Accident Courts or dedicated tribunals to expedite the hearing and disposal of such cases.
He noted that faster adjudication would provide timely closure for victims, enable quicker compensation, and enhance accountability among road users.
He said specialised courts would also allow judges to develop expertise in handling technical evidence, including accident reconstruction, medical reports and vehicle forensics.
"This would lead to more consistent and efficient decisions while reducing the backlog in existing courts," he said.
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Lee added that swifter prosecution and sentencing would serve as a strong deterrent against reckless driving, speeding, and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
"When justice is seen to be swift, it reinforces public confidence and promotes safer road behaviour," he said.
He urged the government and judiciary to seriously consider establishing such courts nationwide, particularly to prioritise cases involving fatalities and serious injuries.
"Victims and their families should not have to wait years for justice," he said, adding that swift justice would strengthen accountability and ultimately make roads safer for all.
