Comprehension passage on Ict - SS3 English Lesson Note

Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions on it

Last year, a section of the judiciary held a press conference in the Appeals Court building. The aim was to explain the Court’s decision to increase sentences and fines imposed on drivers guilty of various motor traffic offences.

Before that conference, there had been a public outcry against the spate of accidents on our highways and their effects on citizens. Many people felt that the sharp rise in the number of accidents could be blamed on drivers who must be punished severely for ‘slaughtering’ passengers and pedestrians. Not even the numerous attempts by the Motor Traffic and Transport Unit of the Police Service and other agencies could stop the carnage.

For, while some drivers drove at great speed, engaging their vehicles in senseless overtaking, even on hills and in curves, others drove under the influence of alcohol. Thus, while many innocent passengers and pedestrians lost their lives in avoidable accidents, countless others suffered permanent injury. Such accident victims had to depend on their immediate family and others for sustenance. Family members who depended on them for survival faced severe hardship.

All this explains why the judiciary, therefore, responded positively and quickly to the public outcry. Subsequently, heavy fines and long prison sentences were imposed on recalcitrant drivers found guilty of road traffic offences to deter others.

However, much to the disappointment of the general public, the punishment has now been relaxed. The reckless drivers seem to have been given the green light to continue causing havocon the highways with impunity. This must certainly stop. Drivers should be made to understand that reckless driving is an offence, just as armed robbery is, and they must not be spared. They must be made to face the music and be subjected to the full rigours of the law. That way, travelling will be pleasant and passengers will feel safe.