The tragic death of a 16-year-old boy from Corjem-Curtorim in a road accident near Sonsodo late Tuesday is a grim reminder of the dangers young and inexperienced riders face on public roads. The accident, involving a Bullet motorcycle and a car, has left a family devastated and once again raised serious questions about the responsibility of parents and guardians in preventing minors from riding motor vehicles. According to the police investigation, the Bullet motorcycle had reportedly been entrusted to the minor to ride on a public road. An offence has reportedly been registered against his father in connection with the matter. Allowing a minor to operate a motorcycle is not merely a violation of the law, it can expose the child and other road users to potentially fatal risks. It is possible that some minors may take vehicles for a joy ride without informing their families. Such a possibility should be thoroughly examined. Parents must understand that a moment of misplaced trust or indulgence can result in a lifetime of grief. Parents must ensure that children respect traffic laws and never encourage or facilitate underage driving.
ADELMO FERNANDES, Vasco
