SUVA, Fiji (25 November 2024): The Land Transport Authority (LTA) will ramp up road safety education and enforcement efforts during the festive season to curb reckless driving behaviours following the recent road accident in Navuniasi, Naitasiri, where a carrier driver allegedly lost control of the vehicle, causing it to veer off the road, and injuring 13 students.
LTA Chief Executive Officer Irimaia Rokosawa said the Navuniasi accident highlighted an alarming trend of road incidents lately, particularly those involving Public Service Vehicle (PSV) drivers.
As Fiji grapples with the impact of these tragic events, Mr Rokosawa reiterated LTA’s commitment to enhancing road safety and protecting lives.
“We are deeply concerned about the spate of recent accidents that have endangered the lives of passengers, including children. This incident highlights the urgent need for all drivers, particularly PSV operators, to prioritize safety and adhere to traffic regulations at all times,” the CEO said.
“This includes drivers strictly following essential road safety measures, particularly during adverse weather conditions, which pose additional challenges to vehicle handling and road visibility. Drivers are reminded to adhere to speed limits and traffic signs: Speeding remains a leading cause of road accidents. Obeying posted speed limits and signage is non-negotiable.”
Mr Rokosawa said drivers should also avoid distractions such as using mobile phones or engaging in any other activity while driving as these actions significantly increases the risk of accidents.
He said fatigue, negligence, or inattention can lead to catastrophic outcomes. The CEO urged the public to stay alert, especially in challenging weather or road conditions.
In response to the rising number of road incidents, the LTA will be intensifying enforcement efforts to identify and penalize those who violate road safety rules. This includes deploying more officers to conduct spot checks, monitoring speed limits, and ensuring compliance with PSV regulations.
Drivers who endanger others will face strict legal consequences, including fines, suspension, or cancellation of their licences in cases of severe negligence or harm.
“Road safety is a shared responsibility, and any breach of this responsibility can have devastating consequences. LTA will not tolerate any actions that compromise the safety of passengers and other road users,” Mr Rokosawa said.
“The LTA will continue to work closely with stakeholders such as the Fiji Police Force and the public to create safer roads. Community awareness programs, campaigns, and workshops are ongoing to educate drivers and the public on road safety best practices.
“However, enforcement alone is not enough. Every driver must commit to adopting responsible driving behaviours to prevent accidents and save lives.
“As students recover from the injuries sustained in the Navuniasi accident, let this incident serve as a stark reminder of the consequences of negligence and non-compliance with traffic regulations.”
Mr Rokosawa said the lives of Fijians were too precious to lose due to preventable incidents and all drivers must treat road safety as a matter of utmost importance.
