Tow away cars to deter wanton parking

I was reading the article “Clamping down hard on errant motorists” in the Star Metro on Oct 3. 

I think the solution to the problem of inconsiderate motorists parking their cars is to tow away their cars. 

The errant motorist will then have to pay the usual fine as well as pay the towing charges. 

This will ensure that the car no longer obstructs traffic and increases the penalty for the errant motorist in terms of monetary cost as well as time and inconvenience. This will make motorists think twice before parking their vehicles as and where they like. 

Corrupt practices can also be reduced as there will be proper documentation of the vehicle being towed to the impound yard and the fine paid to retrieve their car. Motorists would not be able to pay a bribe to get off the hook.  

Whenever an errant motorist breaks the law and does not get punished, other innocent motorists are actually being punished for obeying the law. 

For example, when someone parks his car on a narrow road obstructing traffic flow, other motorists have to slow down and manoeuvre their vehicles around the parked car. This is both inconvenient and sometimes dangerous, while the inconsiderate motorist gets away scot-free. 

To ensure this system works, there must be clear guidelines for towing vehicles. 

The local government staff must be well briefed and familiar with the law. 

There must be no hint of selective enforcement or corruption. 

Commercial tow truck operators should not be allowed a free hand to tow away vehicles on behalf of the local council. They may be employed to tow away cars that have been identified and summoned by the local government enforcement officers. 

Clear signboards should be posted to inform motorists of the penalty.  

I am sure if the local government takes the above steps, the problem of illegal and indiscriminate parking will be tremendously reduced.  

CHEW TK,