SUVA, Fiji (02 January 2025): The Land Transport Authority (LTA) is calling on all road users to exercise vigilance, responsibility, and caution on our roads following the death of a 12-year-old student from Sabeto, Nadi, who tragically lost his life yesterday after being thrown out of a moving vehicle.
According to preliminary reports from the Fiji Police Force, the student was travelling with other youths along Natadola and seated in the back tray of a carrier. It is alleged that the vehicle encountered potholes, causing the student to be thrown from the moving vehicle on to the tar-sealed road.
LTA Chief Executive Officer Irimaia Rokosawa said this unfortunate loss of life was preventable and highlighted the critical need for adherence to road safety principles.
He said drivers must exercise heightened awareness and responsible driving behaviours, particularly when navigating challenging road conditions such as potholes.
“Safety begins with responsible driving and as such, drivers hold an immense responsibility for the safety of all passengers in their vehicles. When navigating roads with potholes or uneven surfaces, drivers should reduce speed and drive cautiously to minimize risks,” he said.
“Ensuring passenger safety is also important. Drivers must avoid overloading vehicles and ensure that all passengers are seated in designated, secure areas of the vehicle.”
He urged drivers to use proper judgment and consider the safety of passengers above all else when making decisions on the road.
“It’s crucial that drivers understand that the faster you drive, the less control you have, particularly on rough or unfamiliar roads. No one is above the law, and it is every driver’s responsibility to ensure they are driving safely, responsibly, and within the limits,” Mr Rokosawa said.
“We need to see a shift in mindset across the nation—a commitment to road safety, where drivers understand that their actions can have life-altering consequences. Whether you’ re on a busy highway or a quiet residential street, reckless driving has no place on our roads.”
The CEO also emphasized the important role passengers play in ensuring their own safety and that of others.
He said it was not only the responsibility of the driver to follow road safety regulations, but passengers must also play their part.
“Passengers should never encourage unsafe behaviour, such as riding in dangerous areas like the back tray of a vehicle or distracting the driver. Everyone in the vehicle must share the responsibility to ensure safe travel,” Mr Rokosawa said.
He said one of the leading causes of accidents and fatalities on our roads was speeding and when drivers exceed speed limits, they not only endanger their own lives but also the lives of their passengers, pedestrians, and other road users.
“Speeding reduces reaction time and increases the severity of collisions,” Mr Rokosawa said.
The CEO said the Authority’s road safety education teams were also conducting public awareness and community outreach on responsible driver, pedestrian and passenger behaviours.
