Drunk drivers could soon face harsher penalties.  

The government is stepping up efforts to implement heavier consequences on those who drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.  

As such, the Road Transport Department is reviewing the Road Transport Act to revise several sections.  

Earlier, the Transport Ministry said that it's drafting amendments to the act that'll include a mandate instructing perpetrators to compensate the family members of victims involved in DUIs.  

This, after a motorcyclist was killed in Klang over the weekend...while six other individuals were injured in a separate incident just days later.  

Both cases involved drunk drivers.  

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Speaking of the Klang incident...the Attorney-General has clarified the decision to slap a murder charge on the alleged drunk driver.

He says, based on the evidence, there were enough grounds to support such a charge.  

Under the Penal Code, a suspect can be charged with murder if the accused knowingly commits an act that is so dangerous, it would likely cause death.... and the suspect does it anyway without a justifiable reason.

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In a related development, SOCSO will provide welfare to the victim's widow and three children.

The late motorcyclist's family will receive nearly 2,900 ringgit per month, as they do qualify for the Survivors' Pension.  

As such, his wife is eligible for monthly payments for life, while his children will receive financial assistance for their education until the age of 21.  

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Meanwhile, JPJ has welcomed the proposal to establish a special court for major and serious accident cases.

It says the move could be a good idea, as it'll help create public awareness on road safety aspects.  

However, the proposal will need to be studied first, as it will involve several implications...namely financial, manpower, and more.  

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