SUVA, Fiji (13 November 2024): The Land Transport Authority (LTA) is calling on all road users to be vigilant and exercise caution during the festive season following a serious traffic accident that occurred this afternoon along the King’s Road, Vitogo, where a bus collided with a twin cab utility vehicle, resulting in the hospitalisation of 18 people at the Lautoka Hospital.
As investigations by the Fiji Police continue, LTA Chief Executive Officer Irimaia Rokosawa expressed concern over the lack of adherence to road safety measures and traffic regulations among road users.
He said it was disappointing to witness the disregard for these critical road safety precautions, emphasizing that such behaviours put lives at unnecessary risk.
“It is distressing to see yet another preventable accident take place, especially at a time when we have continuously emphasized the need for vigilance and adherence to road safety rules. Despite frequent public awareness campaigns and outreach efforts led by LTA to promote safe driving behaviours, today’s accident is a reminder that disregard for road safety persists.
“The Authority’s public outreach campaigns are not just words; they are essential messages meant to protect lives. Yet, we are still seeing drivers taking unnecessary risks that endanger everyone on the road. This latest incident demonstrates how crucial it is for all road users—drivers, passengers, and pedestrians alike—to understand the gravity of their responsibility while on the road.”
He said the Authority had observed an alarming trend of non-compliance with traffic regulations, particularly in situations where extra caution was needed, such as during adverse weather.
The current cyclone season in Fiji further amplifies the risks on the road, with rain, wind, and wet surfaces significantly increasing the likelihood of accidents, Mr Rokosawa added.
“The message to drivers, including those operating large passenger vehicles and heavy goods vehicles, is to exercise extreme caution and to adhere strictly to road regulations, including speed limits, safe following distances, and awareness of road conditions,” the CEO said.
In response to the increase in road accidents and traffic incidents, Mr Rokosawa said the LTA, in partnership with Fiji Police and Municipal Council enforcement officers, would continue its heightened enforcement operations across the country, especially as the festive season approaches.
He said the joint enforcement operations were designed to monitor traffic movements more closely, ensuring that safety remains the highest priority on Fiji’s roads. Key focus areas include speeding, impaired driving, seat belt compliance, and reckless overtaking—actions that are often root causes of major road incidents.
Through these joint efforts, LTA and Fiji Police aim to curb the number of road accidents and encourage more responsible behavior among road users.
“Our officers are committed to being vigilant, and those who choose to disregard safety guidelines and traffic laws can expect to face the full consequences of their actions,” said Mr. Rokosawa.
“The lives of Fijians are too precious to lose due to preventable incidents. We call on all drivers to take heed of road safety warnings and exercise patience, especially under challenging weather conditions. Let us make this a time of safety and caution rather than of regret and tragedy.”
Mr Rokosawa said today’s accident was a stark reminder of the risks associated with irresponsible driving behaviours.
He urged all road users to observe road rules and adhere to the guidance provided by authorities, as these measures are implemented with the sole purpose of protecting lives.
