After a recent publication that revealed the dark side behind the driving instructing industry through several disturbing first-hand accounts, Sarah* chose to share her own story in the hopes that awareness will lead to action.  

Ironically, Sarah had begun driving lessons because the bus had become a hub of sexual assault and inappropriate behaviour for her. 

“Someone groped my private parts and locked me into my seat while another person reached from behind and cupped my breasts – to describe just a couple of experiences.”

Consequently, she started searching for driving instructors to gain independence and travel safely without the constant threat of being harassed. 

“I found a driving instructor who had previously been in the police force, and although it might have been naive of me, I thought that he could be a safe option.”

However, despite his previous title, lessons with the older man soon proved to be just as daunting as the bus rides. 

“First, it started with subtly touching my hand when I made a mistake and I thought ‘Ok, maybe he’s just trying to get my attention’.”

“Then he started slapping my knee until one lesson he just started violently hitting and groping my inner thigh, going as far as pinching right next to my private parts.”

Sarah continued to admit that she felt like she couldn’t speak up due to his prior role as a police officer. Meanwhile, he continued with inappropriate behaviour until she decided to stop going to lessons altogether.

Lovin Malta reached out to the Malta Driving Instructors Association, who said that they condemn such abuse, dissociate themselves from such instructors and urge Transport Malta to take the issue seriously.

*The driver’s name has been changed to protect her identity 

If you’ve ever been subject to harassment or abuse and want to share your story, reach out to [email protected]