More than 100,000 drivers in Maharashtra have reportedly learned Marathi, highlighting the growing focus on language proficiency among the state’s driving workforce.

However, not all of those who have learned the language have been tested or formally certified, creating a gap between language training and official certification.

The development comes amid Maharashtra’s wider efforts to promote Marathi-language proficiency among drivers and improve communication with passengers and commuters.

The numbers raise questions about how many drivers have completed the required testing process, how certification is being implemented and what the next steps will be for those who remain uncertified.


Maharashtra: basic Marathi compulsory for rickshaw, auto & cab drivers 

Maharashtra has made Marathi language training mandatory for app based cab drivers, including those working with Ola, Uber and Rapido. Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik says there will be no exemptions, with verification drives and stricter action planned after August 18 against drivers who fail to comply.


Race against time for Maharashtra drivers to get basic language certificate

US woman goes on highway shooting spree:&nbsp;There were many things American officials were gearing up to face amid the solar eclipse - traffic jams, accidents, eye injuries and more. But this one definitely wasn't on their list.&nbsp;

In a bizarre incident, a woman suddenly shot at two drivers on a Florida interstate and claimed that she was asked by "God" to do so via the solar eclipse, as per the police.&nbsp;

The 22-year-old Taylon Nichelle Celestine stepped outside her Holmes County motel on Monday (April 8) where she “had recently checked out of a local hotel and told the staff she was going on a shooting spree, directed by ‘God’ in relation to the solar eclipse.”

Strangely, the Sunshine State was not even close to the path of totality and hence, was supposed to be the least affected by&nbsp;the astronomical phenomenon.

<h2>US Woman Shooting at Interstate 10</h2>

Celestine, who was driving a purple Dodge Challenger which had Georgia plates, reached Interstate 10 at the 112-mile marker and started firing at other vehicles which were five miles away from the highway in Washington County, said Florida Highway Patrol.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/indias-sun-study-craft-aditya-l1-can-create-a-247-total-solar-eclipse-708941">India's Sun-study craft Aditya-L1 can 'create a 24/7 Total Solar Eclipse'</a>

The woman allegedly shot at a car several times while it was moving on the interstate. “The driver was struck by glass fragments from the window and grazed on the arm by a bullet; however, he was able to steer his vehicle onto the shoulder of the road, away from the suspect,” as reported by the highway patrol.

The woman was armed with both a handgun and an assault rifle and continued to drive west on I-10 and fired on another vehicle which was close to the 107-mile market, as per the highway patrol.

As per the agency, the driver suffered a bullet injury in the neck and was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.

Watch:&nbsp;Total Solar Eclipse 2024: Skywatchers in India to miss solar eclipse

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/total-solar-eclipse-2024-skywatchers-in-india-to-miss-solar-eclipse-709027/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The highway patrol troopers caught hold of the woman near the 96-mile marker. An AR-15 and a 9mm handgun were allegedly recovered from the woman.

The woman was taken into custody and sent to Holmes County Jail. She has been accused of improper discharge of a firearm, aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and attempted murder.

It remains unclear which gun was used by the woman to shoot at other drivers and if they were obtained legally. The investigation into the case is ongoing.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

US woman goes on highway shooting spree: There were many things American officials were gearing up to face amid the solar eclipse - traffic jams, accidents, eye injuries and more.

US woman goes on highway shooting spree: There were many things American officials were gearing up to face amid the solar eclipse - traffic jams, accidents, eye injuries and more. But this one definitely wasn't on their list. In a bizarre incident, a woman suddenly shot at two drivers on a Florida interstate and claimed that she was asked by "God" to do so via the solar eclipse, as per the police. The 22-year-old Taylon Nichelle Celestine stepped outside her Holmes County motel on Monday (April 8) where she “had recently checked out of a local hotel and told the staff she was going on a shooting spree, directed by ‘God’ in relation to the solar eclipse.” Strangely, the Sunshine State was not even close to the path of totality and hence, was supposed to be the least affected by the astronomical phenomenon. US Woman Shooting at Interstate 10 Celestine, who was driving a purple Dodge Challenger which had Georgia plates, reached Interstate 10 at the 112-mile marker and started firing at other vehicles which were five miles away from the highway in Washington County, said Florida Highway Patrol. Also Read: India's Sun-study craft Aditya-L1 can 'create a 24/7 Total Solar Eclipse' The woman allegedly shot at a car several times while it was moving on the interstate. “The driver was struck by glass fragments from the window and grazed on the arm by a bullet; however, he was able to steer his vehicle onto the shoulder of the road, away from the suspect,” as reported by the highway patrol. The woman was armed with both a handgun and an assault rifle and continued to drive west on I-10 and fired on another vehicle which was close to the 107-mile market, as per the highway patrol. As per the agency, the driver suffered a bullet injury in the neck and was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. Watch: Total Solar Eclipse 2024: Skywatchers in India to miss solar eclipse The highway patrol troopers caught hold of the woman near the 96-mile marker. An AR-15 and a 9mm handgun were allegedly recovered from the woman. The woman was taken into custody and sent to Holmes County Jail. She has been accused of improper discharge of a firearm, aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and attempted murder. It remains unclear which gun was used by the woman to shoot at other drivers and if they were obtained legally. The investigation into the case is ongoing. (With inputs from agencies)

Bizarre! Woman says God talked to her via solar eclipse and asked her to shoot at drivers

Hours before the funeral of Alexei Navalny, a staunch critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin, his&nbsp;team informed that they have been facing difficulties in organising the farewell ceremony.

Navalny's spokeswoman Kira Yarmysh said that till now no hearse has been found to drive the body to church.

"Unknown people are calling mortuaries and threatening them if they accept to take Alexei's body," Yarmysh said, as reported by BBC.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alexei-navalnys-body-handed-over-to-his-mother-spokesperson-693534">Alexei Navalny's body handed to his mother, more than a week after his death in Russian prison</a>

Navalny's funeral will be carried out on Friday (Mar 1) in Maryino, on the outskirts of Moscow. The team on Wednesday (Feb 28) announced that the memorial service will be held at the Church of the Icon of Our Lady Quench My Sorrows at 14:00 Moscow time (11:00 GMT).

The burial will be held at the Borisovskoye Cemetery at 16:00 Moscow time. The team will also livestream the funeral service of Navalny on YouTube.

On February 16, Navalny died in a Russian prison located inside the Arctic Circle. He was kept in prison for three years over various charges.

<h2>Navalny's team asks people to join funeral amid fears of violence</h2>

Navalny's team has been encouraging people to attend the funeral and shared a map of the route between the locations.

The team has also shared a list of places - Seoul, Rome, Montreal and Stockholm, from where people can take part in memorial services for Navalny.

Speaking to BBC, Navalny's former chief of staff Leonid Volkov expressed his concern regarding what might happen during the service in Moscow.

Watch:&nbsp;Russia: Alexei Navalny to be burried on March 1; Navalny's widow fears arrests at funeral

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"I'm afraid that surprises are to be expected tomorrow... frankly, as I speak now, I don't know if they will actually allow people to say goodbye to Alexei," Navalny said.

He said that the team of Navalny was also worried that issues might arise with the church where the service is taking place.

Meanwhile, Vladimir Ashurkov, who is a long-term friend and associate of Navalny, said that there are chances of police brutality and violence at the funeral.

Speaking to The Independent, Ashurkov said, “For many people Navalny was a hero and it only makes sense people have a chance to pay a last tribute to him tomorrow."

“I don’t know how brutal and violent it will get in Moscow, but there is a chance of it. In the two weeks since Navalny’s death, authorities have been quite brutal and dozens of people were arrested," he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Hours before the funeral of Alexei Navalny, a staunch critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin, his team informed that they have been facing difficulties in organising the farewell ceremony.

Hours before the funeral of Alexei Navalny, a staunch critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin, his team informed that they have been facing difficulties in organising the farewell ceremony. Navalny's spokeswoman Kira Yarmysh said that till now no hearse has been found to drive the body to church. "Unknown people are calling mortuaries and threatening them if they accept to take Alexei's body," Yarmysh said, as reported by BBC. Also Read: Alexei Navalny's body handed to his mother, more than a week after his death in Russian prison Navalny's funeral will be carried out on Friday (Mar 1) in Maryino, on the outskirts of Moscow. The team on Wednesday (Feb 28) announced that the memorial service will be held at the Church of the Icon of Our Lady Quench My Sorrows at 14:00 Moscow time (11:00 GMT). The burial will be held at the Borisovskoye Cemetery at 16:00 Moscow time. The team will also livestream the funeral service of Navalny on YouTube. On February 16, Navalny died in a Russian prison located inside the Arctic Circle. He was kept in prison for three years over various charges. Navalny's team asks people to join funeral amid fears of violence Navalny's team has been encouraging people to attend the funeral and shared a map of the route between the locations. The team has also shared a list of places - Seoul, Rome, Montreal and Stockholm, from where people can take part in memorial services for Navalny. Speaking to BBC, Navalny's former chief of staff Leonid Volkov expressed his concern regarding what might happen during the service in Moscow. Watch: Russia: Alexei Navalny to be burried on March 1; Navalny's widow fears arrests at funeral "I'm afraid that surprises are to be expected tomorrow... frankly, as I speak now, I don't know if they will actually allow people to say goodbye to Alexei," Navalny said. He said that the team of Navalny was also worried that issues might arise with the church where the service is taking place. Meanwhile, Vladimir Ashurkov, who is a long-term friend and associate of Navalny, said that there are chances of police brutality and violence at the funeral. Speaking to The Independent, Ashurkov said, “For many people Navalny was a hero and it only makes sense people have a chance to pay a last tribute to him tomorrow." “I don’t know how brutal and violent it will get in Moscow, but there is a chance of it. In the two weeks since Navalny’s death, authorities have been quite brutal and dozens of people were arrested," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Alexei Navalny's funeral: Family struggles to find hearse to drive body to church

A recent study analysing over 400,000 UK road accidents suggested that drivers of certain car brands, such as Subaru, Porsche, and BMW, are more likely to be causing crashes, particularly when "risky or aggressive maneuvers" are a factor.

The analysis revealed a significant statistical difference across various brands, with Subaru, Porsche, and BMW being associated more with "dodgy driving" behaviours.

This includes speeding, running red lights, neglecting pedestrian crossings, or overtaking on double white lines. This kind of conduct by drivers is more common in Subaru, Porsche, and BMW when compared to brands like Skoda or Hyundai.

<h2>Branding influencing driver behaviour?&nbsp;</h2>

The researchers, after considering variables such as drivers' ages and road types, proposed that branding might play a role in these findings. The study, published in the Journal of Social Marketing has raised concerns into the role of car marketing in influencing driver behaviour.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/earth-was-more-charming-for-aliens-when-dinosaurs-existed-657525">Earth was more charming for aliens when dinosaurs existed</a>

Lead author Alan Tapp, a professor of social marketing, said that the prevalence of aggressive driving was higher among brands characterised by advertising and marketing that seemingly "celebrate performance driving, look at me, king-of-the-road stuff."

Subaru drivers were found to exhibit the highest proportion of "injudicious action," as described by the paper.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/melting-sea-ice-causing-heavier-snowfall-in-antarctica-staving-off-high-sea-levels-657519">Melting sea ice causing heavier snowfall in Antarctica, staving off high sea levels</a>

A Porsche spokesperson highlighted their commitment to safety.

Subaru noted changes in their range since the examined data period 2011-2015 data. BMW also stressed on their dedication to safety in marketing practices.

However, branding guru Mark Borkowski suggested that car manufacturers have long influenced consumers to buy into a lifestyle brand by&nbsp;“bewitching a consumer"&nbsp;that "you have the Top Gear or Grand Tour idiom, or movies like Fast and Furious or James Bond”.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/dyson-zone-headphones-worth-your-money-657646">Dyson Zone headphones: Worth your money?</a>

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“None of those experiences and imagery seem particularly real, but people maybe – particularly guys – step into those cars and think they’ve become those brands, even when you don’t have those Swiss mountain passes or the LA Freeway. And nothing looks more silly than being in a super-sleek car tootling slowly around on the streets of Guildford and Gosport,"&nbsp;Borkowski added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A recent study analysing over 400,000 UK road accidents suggested that drivers of certain car brands, such as Subaru, Porsche, and BMW, are more likely to be causing crashes, particularly when "risky or aggressive maneuvers" are a factor.

A recent study analysing over 400,000 UK road accidents suggested that drivers of certain car brands, such as Subaru, Porsche, and BMW, are more likely to be causing crashes, particularly when "risky or aggressive maneuvers" are a factor. The analysis revealed a significant statistical difference across various brands, with Subaru, Porsche, and BMW being associated more with "dodgy driving" behaviours. This includes speeding, running red lights, neglecting pedestrian crossings, or overtaking on double white lines. This kind of conduct by drivers is more common in Subaru, Porsche, and BMW when compared to brands like Skoda or Hyundai. Branding influencing driver behaviour? The researchers, after considering variables such as drivers' ages and road types, proposed that branding might play a role in these findings. The study, published in the Journal of Social Marketing has raised concerns into the role of car marketing in influencing driver behaviour. Also Read | Earth was more charming for aliens when dinosaurs existed Lead author Alan Tapp, a professor of social marketing, said that the prevalence of aggressive driving was higher among brands characterised by advertising and marketing that seemingly "celebrate performance driving, look at me, king-of-the-road stuff." Subaru drivers were found to exhibit the highest proportion of "injudicious action," as described by the paper. Also Read | Melting sea ice causing heavier snowfall in Antarctica, staving off high sea levels A Porsche spokesperson highlighted their commitment to safety. Subaru noted changes in their range since the examined data period 2011-2015 data. BMW also stressed on their dedication to safety in marketing practices. However, branding guru Mark Borkowski suggested that car manufacturers have long influenced consumers to buy into a lifestyle brand by “bewitching a consumer" that "you have the Top Gear or Grand Tour idiom, or movies like Fast and Furious or James Bond”. Watch | Dyson Zone headphones: Worth your money? × “None of those experiences and imagery seem particularly real, but people maybe – particularly guys – step into those cars and think they’ve become those brands, even when you don’t have those Swiss mountain passes or the LA Freeway. And nothing looks more silly than being in a super-sleek car tootling slowly around on the streets of Guildford and Gosport," Borkowski added. (With inputs from agencies)

Subaru, Porsche, and BMW drivers likely cause more car crashes in UK, study blames 'look-at-me' branding

Amid the ongoing strike called by taxi drivers in South Africa, protesters set two buses on fire. Drivers are against the cancellation of the incentive programme.

Taxi drivers strike in South Africa: Protesters set two buses on fire

Male drivers are almost three times more likely than women to be involved in road collisions that kill or seriously injure pedestrians in Great Britain.

Study: Men drivers three times more likely to kill or injure pedestrians

Self-driving cars have hit the roads in various cities around the world. These autonomous vehicles have been around for years now but they have not managed to go mainstream yet because there are still many safety concerns around them.

Self-driving cars safer than human drivers?

Formula One drivers will gather together on the grid ahead of Sunday's season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix to raise awareness of UNICEF's emergency fundraising appeal for its programmes helping children and families in Ukraine and other conflict zones, the sport said on Sunday.

The 20 drivers will stand on the grid behind a banner in support of the appeal, urging fans to consider donating to the United Nations children's agency's appeal.

Formula One and teams have already made a "generous donation", the sport said, without specifying a number.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t-natarajan-breaks-a-stump-into-two-as-sunrisers-hyderabad-pacer-breathes-fire-ahead-of-ipl-2022-watch-464044">T Natarajan breaks a stump into two as Sunrisers Hyderabad pacer breathes fire ahead of IPL 2022 - WATCH</a>

Russia invaded Ukraine on Feb. 24.

Over three million have fled the fighting for other countries, according to United Nations data, in what has become Europe's fastest-growing refugee crisis since World War Two.

Russia calls its actions in Ukraine a "special military operation".

Formula One drivers will gather together on the grid ahead of Sunday's season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix to raise awareness of UNICEF's emergency fundraising appeal for its programmes helping children and families in Ukraine and other conflict zones, the sport said on Sunday.

Formula One drivers will gather together on the grid ahead of Sunday's season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix to raise awareness of UNICEF's emergency fundraising appeal for its programmes helping children and families in Ukraine and other conflict zones, the sport said on Sunday. The 20 drivers will stand on the grid behind a banner in support of the appeal, urging fans to consider donating to the United Nations children's agency's appeal. Formula One and teams have already made a "generous donation", the sport said, without specifying a number. ALSO READ: T Natarajan breaks a stump into two as Sunrisers Hyderabad pacer breathes fire ahead of IPL 2022 - WATCH Russia invaded Ukraine on Feb. 24. Over three million have fled the fighting for other countries, according to United Nations data, in what has become Europe's fastest-growing refugee crisis since World War Two. Russia calls its actions in Ukraine a "special military operation".

F1 drivers to support UNICEF's emergency fundraising appeal for Ukraine

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem chaired an extraordinary meeting of the World Motor Sport Council (WMSC) to address matters relating to the ongoing situation in Ukraine.

In his opening remarks to the meeting, the FIA President said: "As you know, the FIA is watching the developments in Ukraine with sadness and shock and I hope for a swift and peaceful resolution to the present situation. We condemn the Russian invasion of Ukraine and our thoughts are with all those suffering as a result of the events in Ukraine."

"I would like to stress that the HA, together with our promoters, proactively acted on this matter last week and communicated accordingly on the Formula 1, Formula 2, WTCR and the International Drifting Cup," he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/players-from-russia-belarus-allowed-to-compete-in-atp-wta-events-458105">Players from Russia, Belarus allowed to compete in ATP, WTA events</a>

Motorsport's governing body FIA on Tuesday condemned Russia's invasion of Ukraine but said Russian and Belarusian drivers could still take part in its competitions in a neutral capacity.

An updated version of the different FIA International Calendars will be presented to the WMSC meeting in Bahrain for approval," he added.

In accordance with the International Olympic Committee recommendations, Council members approved the following decisions to be implemented with immediate effect: No international/zone competition to take place in Russia and Belarus, until further notice.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/issf-bans-athletes-from-russia-belarus-after-ukraine-invasion-458082">ISSF bans athletes from Russia, Belarus after Ukraine invasion</a>

No flag/symbol or anthem of Russia/Belarus to be used in international/zone competitions until further notice No Russian/Belarusian national teams to participate in international/zone competitions (e.g. FIA Motorsport Games), until further notice.

Russian/Belarusian drivers, individual competitors and officials to participate in international/zone competitions only in their neutral capacity and under the "FIA flag", subject to specific commitment and adherence to the FIA's principles of peace and political neutrality, until further notice.

No Russian/Belarusian national symbols, colours, flags (uniform, equipment and car)- should be displayed or anthems should be played at international/zone competitions, until further notice.

The FIA President added: "I want to thank the Council members for their prompt action in deciding these measures in the interests of sport and peace. We stand in solidarity with Leonid Kostyuchenko, the President of the Federation Automobile d'Ukraine (FAU) and the wider FIA family in the country."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ukraine-crisis-bwf-suspend-russian-and-belarusan-athletes-officials-457893">Ukraine crisis: BWF suspend Russian and Belarusan athletes, officials</a>

"The measures taken today recognise the authority of the FAU in Ukraine and are also aligned with the recommendations recently made by the International Olympic Committee. We are in active discussions with our members as we continue to extend our compassion and support in their time of need. We sincerely hope for a peaceful resolution to their intolerable hardship," he added.

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem chaired an extraordinary meeting of the World Motor Sport Council (WMSC) to address matters relating to the ongoing situation in Ukraine.

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem chaired an extraordinary meeting of the World Motor Sport Council (WMSC) to address matters relating to the ongoing situation in Ukraine. In his opening remarks to the meeting, the FIA President said: "As you know, the FIA is watching the developments in Ukraine with sadness and shock and I hope for a swift and peaceful resolution to the present situation. We condemn the Russian invasion of Ukraine and our thoughts are with all those suffering as a result of the events in Ukraine." "I would like to stress that the HA, together with our promoters, proactively acted on this matter last week and communicated accordingly on the Formula 1, Formula 2, WTCR and the International Drifting Cup," he added. ALSO READ: Players from Russia, Belarus allowed to compete in ATP, WTA events Motorsport's governing body FIA on Tuesday condemned Russia's invasion of Ukraine but said Russian and Belarusian drivers could still take part in its competitions in a neutral capacity. An updated version of the different FIA International Calendars will be presented to the WMSC meeting in Bahrain for approval," he added. In accordance with the International Olympic Committee recommendations, Council members approved the following decisions to be implemented with immediate effect: No international/zone competition to take place in Russia and Belarus, until further notice. ALSO READ: ISSF bans athletes from Russia, Belarus after Ukraine invasion No flag/symbol or anthem of Russia/Belarus to be used in international/zone competitions until further notice No Russian/Belarusian national teams to participate in international/zone competitions (e.g. FIA Motorsport Games), until further notice. Russian/Belarusian drivers, individual competitors and officials to participate in international/zone competitions only in their neutral capacity and under the "FIA flag", subject to specific commitment and adherence to the FIA's principles of peace and political neutrality, until further notice. No Russian/Belarusian national symbols, colours, flags (uniform, equipment and car)- should be displayed or anthems should be played at international/zone competitions, until further notice. The FIA President added: "I want to thank the Council members for their prompt action in deciding these measures in the interests of sport and peace. We stand in solidarity with Leonid Kostyuchenko, the President of the Federation Automobile d'Ukraine (FAU) and the wider FIA family in the country." ALSO READ: Ukraine crisis: BWF suspend Russian and Belarusan athletes, officials "The measures taken today recognise the authority of the FAU in Ukraine and are also aligned with the recommendations recently made by the International Olympic Committee. We are in active discussions with our members as we continue to extend our compassion and support in their time of need. We sincerely hope for a peaceful resolution to their intolerable hardship," he added.

Drivers from Russia, Belarus to participate only in their neutral capacity, says FIA President Md. Ben Sulayem

The drivers of a freeway on Southern California were in a for a big surprise on Friday when two bags of money fell out of an armoured truck and spilled across the highway. Several drivers could be seen making efforts to grab the free money. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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San Diego: Armored truck dumps cash on freeway. Freeway shuts down while people collect $100 bills <a href="https://t.co/KDwDGgtJLn">pic.twitter.com/KDwDGgtJLn</a>
— SixBrownChicks (@SixBrownChicks) <a href="https://twitter.com/SixBrownChicks/status/1462065850563891209?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Sgt Curtis Martin from California Highway Patrol (CHP)’s Oceanside division said the doors of a Sectran Security Inc truck popped open as it drove down the I-5 in Carlsbad at 9:14 am on Friday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/accidental-discharge-of-gun-creates-chaos-at-atlanta-airport-430961">Accidental discharge of gun creates chaos at Atlanta airport</a>

The CHP arrived at 10 am and made concerted efforts to keep the drivers off the road and recover the money. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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All that money is traceable, they not winning a damn thing lol
— Jamie Anderson (@jamieanfire) <a href="https://twitter.com/jamieanfire/status/1462135063970291721?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2021</a></blockquote>
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How to record yourself committing a federal offense 🥴🤦🏾‍♂️
— Wavey Crockett😎🤙🏾 (@MrNevaChillin) <a href="https://twitter.com/MrNevaChillin/status/1462066659443806209?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Ignoring the foolishness of recording your crime, the drivers of this truck are blue collar workers who could lose their jobs over losing this money. Help them collect the money. Everybody has had a bad day at work; show some solidarity.
— Nikki Clifton (@NikkiLClifton) <a href="https://twitter.com/NikkiLClifton/status/1462194090242621448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The CHP is still working with the FBI to investigate the case and recover the money. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Bystanders leaped at the chance of getting some free cash, Martin told reporters. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/transgender-day-of-remembrance-biden-honours-46-transgender-americans-killed-due-to-violence-in-us-430839" hreflang="en">Transgender day of remembrance: Biden honours 46 transgender Americans killed due to violence in US</a>

The authorities have "a lot of evidence", all thanks to numerous social media posts and videos over the incident, added Martin. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"If you found money on the freeway, it is not your money. It belongs to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), this armored truck and the bank. It needs to be returned," Martin explained. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The drivers of a freeway on Southern California were in a for a big surprise on Friday when two bags of money fell out of an armoured truck and spilled across the highway.

The drivers of a freeway on Southern California were in a for a big surprise on Friday when two bags of money fell out of an armoured truck and spilled across the highway. Several drivers could be seen making efforts to grab the free money. San Diego: Armored truck dumps cash on freeway. Freeway shuts down while people collect $100 bills pic.twitter.com/KDwDGgtJLn — SixBrownChicks (@SixBrownChicks) November 20, 2021 × Sgt Curtis Martin from California Highway Patrol (CHP)’s Oceanside division said the doors of a Sectran Security Inc truck popped open as it drove down the I-5 in Carlsbad at 9:14 am on Friday. Also Read: Accidental discharge of gun creates chaos at Atlanta airport The CHP arrived at 10 am and made concerted efforts to keep the drivers off the road and recover the money. All that money is traceable, they not winning a damn thing lol — Jamie Anderson (@jamieanfire) November 20, 2021 × How to record yourself committing a federal offense 🥴🤦🏾‍♂️ — Wavey Crockett😎🤙🏾 (@MrNevaChillin) November 20, 2021 × Ignoring the foolishness of recording your crime, the drivers of this truck are blue collar workers who could lose their jobs over losing this money. Help them collect the money. Everybody has had a bad day at work; show some solidarity. — Nikki Clifton (@NikkiLClifton) November 20, 2021 × The CHP is still working with the FBI to investigate the case and recover the money. Bystanders leaped at the chance of getting some free cash, Martin told reporters. Also Read: Transgender day of remembrance: Biden honours 46 transgender Americans killed due to violence in US The authorities have "a lot of evidence", all thanks to numerous social media posts and videos over the incident, added Martin. "If you found money on the freeway, it is not your money. It belongs to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), this armored truck and the bank. It needs to be returned," Martin explained. (With inputs from agencies)

It's raining cash! People grab free money as dollars spill from truck on to US freeway

Toughening its stand on road safety, the UK government has said that drivers will be banned from using handheld devices for searching photos, listening to music or playing games from next year.

The government said that if found guilty, the drivers would be fined £200 and six licence points, which means that repeated offence would lead to suspension of license for six months and even revocation in the worst case scenario.

The government had already barred drivers to call or text on hand-held phones while driving unless it is an emergency.

Motorists will still be allowed to use hands-free devices while driving, such as navigation devices or mobile phone, if is secured in a cradle.

Also read:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/uk-to-issue-temporary-visas-to-ease-truck-driver-shortage-until-christmas-eve-416005">UK to issue temporary visas to ease truck driver shortage until Christmas eve</a>

The Department for&nbsp;Transport has announced it is planning to strengthen laws from next year to make it easier to prosecute drivers using and holding their phones at the wheel.

The crackdown on mobile phones comes after a public consultation that found 81% of respondents supported proposals to strengthen the law, according to the Guardian.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/uk-government-greenlights-self-driving-cars-on-motorways-380964">UK government greenlights 'self-driving' cars on motorways</a>

According to reports, the Highway Code will be revised to make it clear that being stationary in traffic counts as driving and handheld mobile phone use at traffic lights or in motorway jams is illegal except in very limited circumstances.

But they must ensure they take full responsibility for their driving and can face charges if police find them not in proper control of their vehicle, the transport department said.

However, drivers making a contactless payment using their mobile phone while stationary will be exempt from the new rules.

(With inputs from agencies)

Toughening its stand on road safety, the UK government has said that drivers will be banned from using handheld devices for searching photos, listening to music or playing games from next year.

Toughening its stand on road safety, the UK government has said that drivers will be banned from using handheld devices for searching photos, listening to music or playing games from next year. The government said that if found guilty, the drivers would be fined £200 and six licence points, which means that repeated offence would lead to suspension of license for six months and even revocation in the worst case scenario. The government had already barred drivers to call or text on hand-held phones while driving unless it is an emergency. Motorists will still be allowed to use hands-free devices while driving, such as navigation devices or mobile phone, if is secured in a cradle. Also read: UK to issue temporary visas to ease truck driver shortage until Christmas eve The Department for Transport has announced it is planning to strengthen laws from next year to make it easier to prosecute drivers using and holding their phones at the wheel. The crackdown on mobile phones comes after a public consultation that found 81% of respondents supported proposals to strengthen the law, according to the Guardian. Also read: UK government greenlights 'self-driving' cars on motorways According to reports, the Highway Code will be revised to make it clear that being stationary in traffic counts as driving and handheld mobile phone use at traffic lights or in motorway jams is illegal except in very limited circumstances. But they must ensure they take full responsibility for their driving and can face charges if police find them not in proper control of their vehicle, the transport department said. However, drivers making a contactless payment using their mobile phone while stationary will be exempt from the new rules. (With inputs from agencies)

UK drivers to be banned from using handheld devices from next year

According to sources, Ethiopia had detained 72 drivers working for the World Food Programme in a northern city along the only functional road leading into the famine-threatened Tigray region.

Ethiopia: 72 world food program drivers detained, UN calls for release of its staffers

The United Kingdom is struggling with a drivers' drought. Supply chains have been crippled. Petrol pumps are running dry. Motorists are struggling with empty tanks. 5,000 new visas are expected to be issued for foreign drivers. Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas US Edition: Drivers' drought leaves UK without fuel

Uber Technologies Inc on Wednesday reported widening losses as it spent more to entice drivers to return to its platform, sending shares of the ride-hail and food delivery company down in after-hours trade.

Uber reports widening losses as it spent more to entice drivers to return to its platform

Zebras are on the loose in La Paz's chaotic streets. Amidst the hustle and bustle of the city's snarling traffic, they wave their hooves to help people cross roads and seek to raise awareness amongst drivers to stop at traffic lights and give way to pedestrians.

Bolivia takes zebra crossing literally for road safety

Uber employs around 45,00 drivers in London. To know more watch the video

Uber loses licence to operate in London over safety concerns

Drivers of cab aggregators Uber and Ola have threatened to go on an indefinite strike from the midnight of March 18.

The strike is expected to be observed in key cities like Mumbai, New Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Pune among other cities.

&quot;Ola and Uber had given big assurances to the drivers, but today they are unable to cover their costs. They have invested Rs 5-7 lakh (500,000 - 700,000), and were expecting to make Rs 1.5 lakh (150,000) a month but are unable to even make half of this, owing to the mismanagement by these companies,&quot; said Sanjay Naik of Maharashtra Navnirman Vahatuk Sena, who is organising the strike.

Ola had cut driver incentives based on the number of trips completed by as much as 20-40% in Delhi as compared to the previous year, according to a report. Even Uber had tweaked its incentives model to reward drivers bases on earnings and not on the number of trips, said the report.

Drivers who were earlier attracted to these app-based cabs for their high pay are now the ones protesting.

While taxi-hailing companies offered loan-guarantee letters to drivers through the Mudra scheme and that too without any verification, they are defaulting on repayment now as their costs are not covered.

In Mumbai alone, there are over 45,000 cabs on these aggregators but due to the slump in business, there has been a fall of 20 per cent in the number of cabs running on these platforms in the city.

The strike is expected to be observed in key cities like Mumbai, New Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Pune among other cities

Drivers of cab aggregators Uber and Ola have threatened to go on an indefinite strike from the midnight of March 18. The strike is expected to be observed in key cities like Mumbai, New Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Pune among other cities. "Ola and Uber had given big assurances to the drivers, but today they are unable to cover their costs. They have invested Rs 5-7 lakh (500,000 - 700,000), and were expecting to make Rs 1.5 lakh (150,000) a month but are unable to even make half of this, owing to the mismanagement by these companies," said Sanjay Naik of Maharashtra Navnirman Vahatuk Sena, who is organising the strike. Ola had cut driver incentives based on the number of trips completed by as much as 20-40% in Delhi as compared to the previous year, according to a report. Even Uber had tweaked its incentives model to reward drivers bases on earnings and not on the number of trips, said the report. Drivers who were earlier attracted to these app-based cabs for their high pay are now the ones protesting. While taxi-hailing companies offered loan-guarantee letters to drivers through the Mudra scheme and that too without any verification, they are defaulting on repayment now as their costs are not covered. In Mumbai alone, there are over 45,000 cabs on these aggregators but due to the slump in business, there has been a fall of 20 per cent in the number of cabs running on these platforms in the city.

Ola, Uber drivers might go off roads from tonight

A survey conducted by the NGO - Community Against Drunken Driving (CADD) - among 10,000 cab drivers revealed that about 55% of them usually drink and drive.&nbsp;

The NGO is said to be working with the Delhi Police for about 15 years. Out of the 55% drivers 27% accepted bookings in a highly inebriated state, the survey further revealed.&nbsp;

The survey was conducted between September till December last year. Of the total respondents, 62% confessed that they consumed alcohol in their vehicles.&nbsp;

Road safety expert and CADD founder Prince Singhal said: &quot;The research was conducted at 50 prominent public locations of Delhi including airports, railway stations, Metro stations, malls, commercial hubs, office complexes and university areas. 893 out of the 10,000 were drivers of black-and-yellow taxis and 9,107 were cab drivers of radio and app-based cabs.&quot;

Singhal added: &quot;A key finding of the survey was also that Police enforcement on cab drivers was negligible in Delhi, Gurugram, and Noida region and that cab drivers if at all prosecuted were usually charged for speeding, red-light jumping, and rash driving but rarely for drunk driving. Since cab drivers are duty-bound to drive sober it is even more pertinent that the police conduct alcohol tests on them&nbsp;especially during 11 pm to 1&nbsp;am on a regular basis.&quot;

The 55% drivers admitted to driving drunk, which is common among drivers due to long working hours and less time off, the survey states.&nbsp;

The survey further reveals that about 90% of the cab drivers have never been policed or checked by their employers for drunk driving or having alcohol in the car.&nbsp;

The respondents admitted to drinking in the car as it kills time between long waiting periods and it&#39;s &quot;safe and more economical to consume alcohol in the vehicle.&quot;

Other areas where the survey was conducted included IGI airport, railway stations at New Delhi, Old Delhi, Nizamuddin Central Park, Connaught Place, Nehru Place office complex, GKI and II, New Friends Colony, several top malls, DLF Cyber Hub, DLF City Centre, Ambience Mall, Sector 18 market Noida, Mall of India, Great India Place and Logix City Centre.

These findings question the safety of everyday lives of people traveling in cabs, more so with women who travel late at night.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

A survey conducted by NGO Community Against Drunken Driving (CADD) among 10,000 cab drivers revealed that about 55% of them usually drink and drive

A survey conducted by the NGO - Community Against Drunken Driving (CADD) - among 10,000 cab drivers revealed that about 55% of them usually drink and drive. The NGO is said to be working with the Delhi Police for about 15 years. Out of the 55% drivers 27% accepted bookings in a highly inebriated state, the survey further revealed. The survey was conducted between September till December last year. Of the total respondents, 62% confessed that they consumed alcohol in their vehicles. Road safety expert and CADD founder Prince Singhal said: "The research was conducted at 50 prominent public locations of Delhi including airports, railway stations, Metro stations, malls, commercial hubs, office complexes and university areas. 893 out of the 10,000 were drivers of black-and-yellow taxis and 9,107 were cab drivers of radio and app-based cabs." Singhal added: "A key finding of the survey was also that Police enforcement on cab drivers was negligible in Delhi, Gurugram, and Noida region and that cab drivers if at all prosecuted were usually charged for speeding, red-light jumping, and rash driving but rarely for drunk driving. Since cab drivers are duty-bound to drive sober it is even more pertinent that the police conduct alcohol tests on them especially during 11 pm to 1 am on a regular basis." The 55% drivers admitted to driving drunk, which is common among drivers due to long working hours and less time off, the survey states. The survey further reveals that about 90% of the cab drivers have never been policed or checked by their employers for drunk driving or having alcohol in the car. The respondents admitted to drinking in the car as it kills time between long waiting periods and it's "safe and more economical to consume alcohol in the vehicle." Other areas where the survey was conducted included IGI airport, railway stations at New Delhi, Old Delhi, Nizamuddin Central Park, Connaught Place, Nehru Place office complex, GKI and II, New Friends Colony, several top malls, DLF Cyber Hub, DLF City Centre, Ambience Mall, Sector 18 market Noida, Mall of India, Great India Place and Logix City Centre. These findings question the safety of everyday lives of people traveling in cabs, more so with women who travel late at night.

Shocking survey reveals 55% Delhi-NCR cab drivers drink and drive

Uber has launched a legal challenge against new rules in London which could require thousands of its drivers to take an English-language test, the company said. 
 
The move comes ahead of measures to be introduced on October 1 by the regional transport authority, Transport for London (TfL), that will tighten regulation of the private hire industry in the British capital. 
 
Uber originally backed the changes but said its opposition arose after more details of the regulations emerged. 
 
&quot;This legal action is very much a last resort,&quot; Tom Elvidge, general manager of Uber London said in a statement yesterday. 
 
&quot;We&#39;re particularly disappointed that, after a lengthy consultation process with Transport for London, the goalposts have moved at the last minute and new rules are now being introduced that will be bad for both drivers and tech companies like Uber.&quot; 
 
Despite facing regulatory challenges in numerous countries, Uber has so far expanded to more than 50 countries and is worth an estimated USD 68 billion. 
 
The company&#39;s application for judicial review in London focuses on four of the new TfL rules. 
 
They include the requirement that all private hire drivers not from majority English-speaking countries must prove their language skills. 
 
While Uber supported an English- speaking and -listening test, it has argued that making drivers provide a certificate showing they have an intermediate level of writing and reading is unnecessary and costly. 
 
Uber has more than 30,000 drivers in London and estimates thousands would be affected by the change. 
 
Under the new rules private hire companies will be required to run an operating centre within London, which their passengers are able to call during a ride. 
 
Uber&#39;s customer support centre is currently based in Ireland and it is against moving its operations to London. 
 
Other rules opposed by Uber relate to drivers&#39; insurance policies and the requirement that the company inform TfL of any upcoming changes to its app. 
 
TfL confirmed it received a letter from Uber warning it of the legal challenge. 
 
&quot;We responded to Uber&#39;s letter and will be robustly defending the legal proceedings brought by them in relation to the changes to private hire regulations,&quot; a TfL spokesman said in a statement. 
 
(AFP)

Cab-hailing app argues that making drivers provide a certificate showing they have an intermediate level of writing and reading is costly

Uber has launched a legal challenge against new rules in London which could require thousands of its drivers to take an English-language test, the company said. The move comes ahead of measures to be introduced on October 1 by the regional transport authority, Transport for London (TfL), that will tighten regulation of the private hire industry in the British capital. Uber originally backed the changes but said its opposition arose after more details of the regulations emerged. "This legal action is very much a last resort," Tom Elvidge, general manager of Uber London said in a statement yesterday. "We're particularly disappointed that, after a lengthy consultation process with Transport for London, the goalposts have moved at the last minute and new rules are now being introduced that will be bad for both drivers and tech companies like Uber." Despite facing regulatory challenges in numerous countries, Uber has so far expanded to more than 50 countries and is worth an estimated USD 68 billion. The company's application for judicial review in London focuses on four of the new TfL rules. They include the requirement that all private hire drivers not from majority English-speaking countries must prove their language skills. While Uber supported an English- speaking and -listening test, it has argued that making drivers provide a certificate showing they have an intermediate level of writing and reading is unnecessary and costly. Uber has more than 30,000 drivers in London and estimates thousands would be affected by the change. Under the new rules private hire companies will be required to run an operating centre within London, which their passengers are able to call during a ride. Uber's customer support centre is currently based in Ireland and it is against moving its operations to London. Other rules opposed by Uber relate to drivers' insurance policies and the requirement that the company inform TfL of any upcoming changes to its app. TfL confirmed it received a letter from Uber warning it of the legal challenge. "We responded to Uber's letter and will be robustly defending the legal proceedings brought by them in relation to the changes to private hire regulations," a TfL spokesman said in a statement. (AFP)

Uber moves to block London's new English test rule for drivers

Red Bull team chief Christian Horner today defended Formula One&#39;s decision to postpone the introduction of cockpit &#39;halos&#39; and said not enough research and development had been carried out. 
 
Horner spoke out after drivers union boss Alex Wurz warned that the move, taken on Thursday by the Formula One Strategy Group, had put business interests before driver safety. 
 
&quot;I disagree with that,&quot; said Horner. &quot;We&#39;ve agreed for a system to come in in 2018, but it needs to be fully researched, fully developed and fully tested.&quot;&nbsp; 
 
&quot;At the moment, other than a couple of installation laps from a couple of drivers, there&#39;s been no (testing) mileage put on this.&quot; 
 
He added that new tyre compounds are always tested intensively and extensively before they are introduced and said the same rigour must be applied to safety components. 
 
News of the rejection of the proposed cockpit protection device came just hours after four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel warned &quot;nothing justifies death.&quot; 
 
The Ferrari driver said: &quot;It would be the first time in human history that we&#39;ve learned a lesson and we did not change.&quot; 
 
The F1 Strategy Group made the decision at a meeting in Geneva where it also decided to make changes in other areas including a near-complete relaxation of restrictions on teams radio communications and the introduction of wet race standing starts. 
 
In a statement sent out &nbsp;today morning, F1 Race Director Charlie Whiting said the lifting of radio restrictions was done to improve content for the fans and spectators. 
 
His technical directive made clear that there would be no limits on the messages sent by teams except during the pre-race formation lap. 
 
He listed the subjects permitted in formation lap messages - including car problems, damage, driver software failures, official race control information and oil or debris on track. 
 
In exchange, he said, teams would no longer be able to use a &#39;privacy&#39; button and keep their radio communications message secret. 
 
This means that in future broadcasters will have access to all the radio traffic, a move taken to boost the entertainment factor at a time when F1 ticket sales are slumping. 
 
Thousands of seats at Hockenheim have been covered by green sheeting because the promoters have not sold them. 
In another move, a proposal for a standing race start after a Safety Car period was agreed. 
 
Horner welcomed the changes, but added that with major technical regulation changes next year requiring new designs for cars, it was likely to be difficult to do all the required work in the limited time available. 
 
Asked about the implications if there was a serious accident, in which the &#39;halo&#39; might have helped protect a driver`s head, next year, he said: &quot;It&#39;s very difficult... 
 
&quot;There are always &#39;what ifs?&#39; 
 
&quot;What if it was introduced and it created an accident or a driver couldn`t get out of the car... There are so many what ifs... We need to do the work and make sure it is what the drivers need.&quot; 
 
(AFP) 
 
 
&nbsp;

Christian Horner insisted system needs to be 'fully researched, fully developed and fully tested'

Red Bull team chief Christian Horner today defended Formula One's decision to postpone the introduction of cockpit 'halos' and said not enough research and development had been carried out. Horner spoke out after drivers union boss Alex Wurz warned that the move, taken on Thursday by the Formula One Strategy Group, had put business interests before driver safety. "I disagree with that," said Horner. "We've agreed for a system to come in in 2018, but it needs to be fully researched, fully developed and fully tested." "At the moment, other than a couple of installation laps from a couple of drivers, there's been no (testing) mileage put on this." He added that new tyre compounds are always tested intensively and extensively before they are introduced and said the same rigour must be applied to safety components. News of the rejection of the proposed cockpit protection device came just hours after four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel warned "nothing justifies death." The Ferrari driver said: "It would be the first time in human history that we've learned a lesson and we did not change." The F1 Strategy Group made the decision at a meeting in Geneva where it also decided to make changes in other areas including a near-complete relaxation of restrictions on teams radio communications and the introduction of wet race standing starts. In a statement sent out today morning, F1 Race Director Charlie Whiting said the lifting of radio restrictions was done to improve content for the fans and spectators. His technical directive made clear that there would be no limits on the messages sent by teams except during the pre-race formation lap. He listed the subjects permitted in formation lap messages - including car problems, damage, driver software failures, official race control information and oil or debris on track. In exchange, he said, teams would no longer be able to use a 'privacy' button and keep their radio communications message secret. This means that in future broadcasters will have access to all the radio traffic, a move taken to boost the entertainment factor at a time when F1 ticket sales are slumping. Thousands of seats at Hockenheim have been covered by green sheeting because the promoters have not sold them. In another move, a proposal for a standing race start after a Safety Car period was agreed. Horner welcomed the changes, but added that with major technical regulation changes next year requiring new designs for cars, it was likely to be difficult to do all the required work in the limited time available. Asked about the implications if there was a serious accident, in which the 'halo' might have helped protect a driver`s head, next year, he said: "It's very difficult... "There are always 'what ifs?' "What if it was introduced and it created an accident or a driver couldn`t get out of the car... There are so many what ifs... We need to do the work and make sure it is what the drivers need." (AFP)

Formula One: Red Bull boss defends 'halo' delay

Formula One drivers have called for the sport&#39;s rules to be made clearer after several high-profile incidents over the Hungarian Grand Prix weekend triggered debate on how they should be applied. 
 
Nico Rosberg was allowed to keep pole position for Sunday&rsquo;s race after stewards deemed he had slowed enough for waved double yellow flags, despite the German going faster in the sector in which the flags were shown on his way to his benchmark time. 
 
Drivers are required to reduce speed significantly and be prepared to change direction or stop under double waved yellow flags, which can be deployed to warn them of marshals, stranded cars, or recovery vehicles on or beside the track. 
 
Other drivers, including team mate Lewis Hamilton who was forced to abort his final crack at pole, slowed down enough to hinder their overall laps. 
 
Stewards&#39; acceptance of Rosberg&rsquo;s argument he had slowed enough, raised questions over just how much drivers were required to reduce speed. 
 
&ldquo;The issue is not that he didn&rsquo;t get a penalty,&rdquo; said reigning triple champion Hamilton, who won the race. 
 
&ldquo;It&rsquo;s about being prepared to be able to slow down...if there was a marshal back there... None of us want to take out a marshal or a driver.&quot; 
 
&ldquo;We didn&rsquo;t set a correct example yesterday,&rdquo; Ferrari&rsquo;s four times champion Sebastian Vettel said. 
 
&quot;Next week there will be a go-karting race and there will be a double yellow waved flag somewhere... Then, the way the kids think is, well I don&rsquo;t need to lift much because in Formula One it&rsquo;s okay.&rdquo; 
 
In another incident after qualifying, several drivers, including Red Bull&rsquo;s third-placed Daniel Ricciardo, were at risk of losing their grid slots for not qualifying within 107 per cent of the fastest time in the opening 18-minute phase. 
 
Stewards decided to let some of those drivers keep their positions, while those who hadn&rsquo;t made it past first phase had their times taken away, even though the grid order didn&rsquo;t change. 
 
In Sunday&rsquo;s race, Jenson Button ran foul of tightened radio rules, collecting a drive through penalty when his McLaren team informed him how to get around a hydraulics issue that was causing him brake problems. 
 
&ldquo;The sport is good in so many ways, there are so many improvements coming, but I mean common sense should prevail and we shouldn&rsquo;t get a penalty for stopping an incident,&rdquo; said the former world champion. 
 
&ldquo;It&rsquo;s a shame that the sport is where it is with these regulations.&rdquo; 
 
(Reuters)

Top F1 drivers urge on improvements after several high-profile incidents triggered debates

Formula One drivers have called for the sport's rules to be made clearer after several high-profile incidents over the Hungarian Grand Prix weekend triggered debate on how they should be applied. Nico Rosberg was allowed to keep pole position for Sunday’s race after stewards deemed he had slowed enough for waved double yellow flags, despite the German going faster in the sector in which the flags were shown on his way to his benchmark time. Drivers are required to reduce speed significantly and be prepared to change direction or stop under double waved yellow flags, which can be deployed to warn them of marshals, stranded cars, or recovery vehicles on or beside the track. Other drivers, including team mate Lewis Hamilton who was forced to abort his final crack at pole, slowed down enough to hinder their overall laps. Stewards' acceptance of Rosberg’s argument he had slowed enough, raised questions over just how much drivers were required to reduce speed. “The issue is not that he didn’t get a penalty,” said reigning triple champion Hamilton, who won the race. “It’s about being prepared to be able to slow down...if there was a marshal back there... None of us want to take out a marshal or a driver." “We didn’t set a correct example yesterday,” Ferrari’s four times champion Sebastian Vettel said. "Next week there will be a go-karting race and there will be a double yellow waved flag somewhere... Then, the way the kids think is, well I don’t need to lift much because in Formula One it’s okay.” In another incident after qualifying, several drivers, including Red Bull’s third-placed Daniel Ricciardo, were at risk of losing their grid slots for not qualifying within 107 per cent of the fastest time in the opening 18-minute phase. Stewards decided to let some of those drivers keep their positions, while those who hadn’t made it past first phase had their times taken away, even though the grid order didn’t change. In Sunday’s race, Jenson Button ran foul of tightened radio rules, collecting a drive through penalty when his McLaren team informed him how to get around a hydraulics issue that was causing him brake problems. “The sport is good in so many ways, there are so many improvements coming, but I mean common sense should prevail and we shouldn’t get a penalty for stopping an incident,” said the former world champion. “It’s a shame that the sport is where it is with these regulations.” (Reuters)

Hungarian Grand Prix: Formula One drivers call for clearer rules

Former world champion Sebastian Vettel has slammed Formula One&#39;s decision to tighten radio rules, saying that drivers and teams should be free to say whatever they want to each other during a race. 
 
&quot;All the radio issues we&#39;ve had, I think it&#39;s a joke,&quot; the Ferrari driver told reporters on Thursday during preparations for this weekend&#39;s Hungarian Grand Prix. 
 
The governing International Automobile Federation&#39;s (FIA) Formula One race director Charlie Whiting issued a &quot;technical directive&quot; to teams on Wednesday to clarify what they are allowed to tell their drivers over the radio. 
 
According to the document, seen by Reuters, teams can inform a driver about concerns with their vehicle but &quot;any message of this sort must include an irreversible instruction to enter the pits to rectify the problem or to retire the car&quot;. 
 
The fresh directive also underlined that the radio restrictions will not apply if a car is in the pitlane, whereas earlier they kicked in as soon as the vehicle left the garage. 
 
The clarification came after Nico Rosberg, who had help from Mercedes in getting around gearbox gremlins at this month&#39;s British Grand Prix, was found to be in breach of the rule barring teams from giving drivers assistance over the radio. 
 
A week earlier Force India&#39;s Sergio Perez crashed out on the last lap of the Austrian Grand Prix with brake problems because the team felt the rules prevented them from informing the Mexican of the issue. 
 
German Vettel, 29, said curbing radio transmissions was the wrong way to go, given the technological complexity of modern-day cars, and called for the restrictions to be lifted. 
 
&quot;It&#39;s not our mistake, as in the drivers, that the cars are so complicated these days that they need a big manual and a steering wheel full of buttons to operate it,&quot; the four-times world champion said. 
 
Triple world champion Lewis Hamilton, however, brushed off the change, saying it &quot;doesn&rsquo;t make any difference to me&quot; while team-mate Rosberg said he did not have an opinion on it. 
 
(Reuters)

Sebastian Vettel said curbing radio transmissions was the wrong way to go and called for the restrictions to be lifted

Former world champion Sebastian Vettel has slammed Formula One's decision to tighten radio rules, saying that drivers and teams should be free to say whatever they want to each other during a race. "All the radio issues we've had, I think it's a joke," the Ferrari driver told reporters on Thursday during preparations for this weekend's Hungarian Grand Prix. The governing International Automobile Federation's (FIA) Formula One race director Charlie Whiting issued a "technical directive" to teams on Wednesday to clarify what they are allowed to tell their drivers over the radio. According to the document, seen by Reuters, teams can inform a driver about concerns with their vehicle but "any message of this sort must include an irreversible instruction to enter the pits to rectify the problem or to retire the car". The fresh directive also underlined that the radio restrictions will not apply if a car is in the pitlane, whereas earlier they kicked in as soon as the vehicle left the garage. The clarification came after Nico Rosberg, who had help from Mercedes in getting around gearbox gremlins at this month's British Grand Prix, was found to be in breach of the rule barring teams from giving drivers assistance over the radio. A week earlier Force India's Sergio Perez crashed out on the last lap of the Austrian Grand Prix with brake problems because the team felt the rules prevented them from informing the Mexican of the issue. German Vettel, 29, said curbing radio transmissions was the wrong way to go, given the technological complexity of modern-day cars, and called for the restrictions to be lifted. "It's not our mistake, as in the drivers, that the cars are so complicated these days that they need a big manual and a steering wheel full of buttons to operate it," the four-times world champion said. Triple world champion Lewis Hamilton, however, brushed off the change, saying it "doesn’t make any difference to me" while team-mate Rosberg said he did not have an opinion on it. (Reuters)

Vettel slams radio rules as 'joke'

Formula One has clarified the rules on radio communication between teams and drivers in the wake of incidents that have cost competitors points this season. 
 
The clarification from the International Automobile Federation (FIA), the sport&#39;s governing body, makes clear that a team can inform a driver of a problem with his car but must order him to enter the pits for a decision on what to do. 
 
The technical directive, from Formula One race director Charlie Whiting ahead of Sunday&#39;s Hungarian Grand Prix, defines more clearly what teams can tell drivers during a race. 
 
The document, dated July 20 and seen by Reuters, says &ldquo;any message of this sort must include an irreversible instruction to enter the pits to rectify the problem or to retire the car&quot;. 
 
The FIA has acted following some high-profile incidents relating to instructions from teams to drivers on the track. 
 
At the British Grand Prix on July 10 Mercedes Nico Rosberg was found to be in breach of the rules restricting what information can be conveyed. 
 
The German, nursing a potentially terminal gearbox problem, was hit with a 10-second time penalty that demoted him from second to third after the team gave him instructions on how to get around it. 
 
At the time Mercedes, which decided not to challenge Rosberg&rsquo;s penalty, argued the messages were legal as the rules permitted communication regarding a terminal problem. 
 
Force India&rsquo;s Sergio Perez crashed out on the last lap of the Austrian Grand Prix a week earlier with brake problems after the team felt the rules prevented them from informing the Mexican of the issue. 
 
Following the clarification, teams will be forced to bring a driver into the pits if they inform him of a critical problem where they will then be free to either help him fix it or retire the car. 
 
Coming into the pits will, however, cost the driver a significant chunk of time. 
 
The fresh directive also clarified that the radio restrictions will not apply if a car is in the pit lane, whereas earlier they kicked in as soon as the car left the garage. 
 
(Reuters)

International Automobile Federation clarified that a team can inform a driver of a problem with his car but must order him to enter the pits

Formula One has clarified the rules on radio communication between teams and drivers in the wake of incidents that have cost competitors points this season. The clarification from the International Automobile Federation (FIA), the sport's governing body, makes clear that a team can inform a driver of a problem with his car but must order him to enter the pits for a decision on what to do. The technical directive, from Formula One race director Charlie Whiting ahead of Sunday's Hungarian Grand Prix, defines more clearly what teams can tell drivers during a race. The document, dated July 20 and seen by Reuters, says “any message of this sort must include an irreversible instruction to enter the pits to rectify the problem or to retire the car". The FIA has acted following some high-profile incidents relating to instructions from teams to drivers on the track. At the British Grand Prix on July 10 Mercedes Nico Rosberg was found to be in breach of the rules restricting what information can be conveyed. The German, nursing a potentially terminal gearbox problem, was hit with a 10-second time penalty that demoted him from second to third after the team gave him instructions on how to get around it. At the time Mercedes, which decided not to challenge Rosberg’s penalty, argued the messages were legal as the rules permitted communication regarding a terminal problem. Force India’s Sergio Perez crashed out on the last lap of the Austrian Grand Prix a week earlier with brake problems after the team felt the rules prevented them from informing the Mexican of the issue. Following the clarification, teams will be forced to bring a driver into the pits if they inform him of a critical problem where they will then be free to either help him fix it or retire the car. Coming into the pits will, however, cost the driver a significant chunk of time. The fresh directive also clarified that the radio restrictions will not apply if a car is in the pit lane, whereas earlier they kicked in as soon as the car left the garage. (Reuters)

F1 drivers must return to pit under new radio rules

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