KUALA LUMPUR: A compensation mechanism for victims of fatal road accidents and serious injuries is being considered, says Anthony Loke.
The Transport Minister told the Dewan Rakyat on Tuesday (July 14) that his ministry is proposing amendments to the Road Transport Act 1987 to introduce the system.
"Under this proposal, the court will be empowered to order offenders convicted of serious offences under Act 333 to pay compensation to victims or their next of kin.
"This will be based on the facts and merits of each case, including the extent of injury or death, losses suffered and the offender’s ability to pay," he said.
He said this reflects the government’s commitment that drivers who cause death through dangerous and reckless driving will not be treated as ordinary traffic offenders.
They will face severe legal action which is commensurate with the circumstances of each case, he added.
"The ministry will continue to work closely with the Home Ministry, the police and the Attorney General’s Chambers to ensure strict enforcement and appropriate punishment for the safety of all road users," he said.
Loke was responding to a question by Datuk Yusuf Abd Wahab (GPS-Tanjong Manis) on measures taken by the ministry to stop illegal racing.
Yusuf had also asked if the ministry planned to impose stricter punishments for cases involving fatalities.
