'Seat belt law is just ok, but will cops be?

'Seat belt law is just ok, but will cops be?

Starting Nov. 5, all automobile drivers and passengers in the
front seats must use seat belts as stipulated by the 1992 traffic
law. In the initial six-month trial period, the police will only
issue warnings and record the driver's license of violators. Some
motorists shared their views with The Jakarta Post on the issue.

Destiyadi, 33, is an employee with a company in Mega Kuningan,
South Jakarta. He lives in Pademangan, North Jakarta:

I agree with the new policy for all drivers to use seat belts
provided that the implementation of it is done in a consistent
manner. Traffic regulations here are implemented arbitrarily.
Traffic cops are quite often inconsistent as to who they cite.

The good thing is that vehicles without seat belts will
supposedly not be allowed on the street. So it might reduce
traffic congestion. Anyway let's wait and see what happens in the
next six months.

Kristiyanto, 33, is an employee with a company in West
Jakarta. He resides in Tangerang with his wife and daughter:

I think the more regulations that are imposed, the more
tendency we have to go against the rules. That's what happens
here, ya know. I just wonder whether the regulation on seat belt
usage will be imposed for the sole purpose of public safety, not
for financial benefit of unscrupulous officers.

The six-month trial will be just the same as when the
regulation becomes really effective. It will give new
opportunities for corrupt officials to make money from any type
of violation.

I doubt whether there will be only a warning for unbelted
drivers in the six-month trial. Money (bribes) will still be an
important factor. However, the rule would be good provided the
apparatus is accountable enough to impose the rules.

Most motorists would be reluctant to equip their cars with
seat belts ... I don't actually think seat belts guarantee the
drivers' safety in possible car accidents. Seatbelts are somewhat
annoying for me, it's far easier for me to act instantly without
seat belts in case of accidents.

Triyono, 32, is an employee with an international bank in
Central Jakarta. He lives in Cibubur with his wife and daughter:

I personally agree with such a regulation stipulating all
drivers and passengers wearing their seat belts. The regulation
will educate people to think about safety. We know that our
people tend to be reckless drivers, right? It would be good if
one day the use of seat belts becomes a habit for all drivers;
many fatalities have occurred partly due to the absence of seat
belts.

Sometimes I feel embarrassed that most foreigners are
accustomed to using seat belts despite being stuck in a traffic
jam.

Sometimes I also use the seat belt particularly when I'm
driving in the fast lane on the toll road or when I'm on a long
trip. I guess the implementation will be quite effective because
people will prefer to use seat belts rather than be cited by
police officers.

I hope the regulation will be well-implemented as it will have
a positive impact for drivers and passengers.

Leo Wahyudi S