SUVA, Fiji: The Land Transport Authority (LTA) is calling on social media influencers and all road users to immediately cease engaging in dangerous driving behaviours, such as using mobile phones and other gadgets to record their movements while driving.
LTA Acting Chief Executive Officer Irimaia Rokosawa said these reckless acts, frequently shared on popular social media platforms like Facebook and TikTok, were not only unlawful but also posed significant risks to road safety.
“In recent months, LTA has observed a troubling increase in videos posted by social media influencers that feature dangerous driving behaviours, including the use of electronic devices to film while driving,” he said.
“These videos, which often attract thousands of viewers, inadvertently send a harmful message that such behaviours while driving are acceptable. This is far from the truth. The LTA stresses that engaging in such activities is both illegal and irresponsible.
"Posting videos of reckless driving on social media is not only dangerous but deeply irresponsible. It sets a dangerous precedent for other drivers who may see these actions as acceptable. We want to make it very clear that driving while distracted by mobile phones or other gadgets is illegal and highly dangerous. We urge influencers and all drivers to immediately stop these behaviours and prioritize safety on our roads.”
Mr Rokosawa said the Authority’s enforcement team was also monitoring social media platforms to identify and address these dangerous activities.
He urged the public to report instances of reckless driving or unsafe behaviours they observe on the roads. These reports can be lodged via LTA’s complaints register – Text to 582 or email help@lta.com.fj/complaints@lta.com.fj. The Authority’s dedicated reporting system allows individuals to provide information and help ensure that those engaging in dangerous driving are held accountable.
“The potential consequences of such distractions are severe. Using electronic devices while driving not only increases the risk of accidents but also endangers the lives of all road users,” Mr Rokosawa said.
“Speeding, dangerous driving, drink-driving, driver fatigue, improper steering control, and engaging in other distractions are significant contributors to fatal accidents. It is crucial that all drivers recognise the gravity of these actions and take responsibility for maintaining road safety.”
The Authority will be intensifying its enforcement efforts, especially during this peak travel period in light of recent incidents and the increasing prevalence of dangerous driving behaviours.
The Acting CEO said enforcement personnel would be deployed to monitor high-traffic areas, particularly around popular transport hubs such as bus stands, taxi stands, major roadways, and known black spot areas.
He said speed limits and traffic regulations would be strictly enforced, with a focus on detecting and deterring reckless driving, impaired driving, and other hazardous behaviours.
“Our priority is to ensure the safety and well-being of all road users. By intensifying our enforcement efforts, we aim to create a safer driving environment and reduce the number of road accidents,” Mr Rokosawa said.
The Authority is urging all drivers to exercise caution, adhere to traffic laws, and avoid distractions while driving.
