Motorists have been warned against forming Viber groups to share information about police traffic checkpoints and speed radar locations, which is seen as an attempt to evade law enforcement aimed at ensuring road safety. Superintendent of Police Eroni Soqosoqo, the Acting Divisional Police Commander for the Northern region, stated that these groups undermine police operations and pose significant risks.
According to SP Soqosoqo, drivers who depend on such alerts often reduce their speed when approaching checkpoints but often speed up afterward, which can lead to accidents. He stressed that such behavior disrupts police efforts and that individuals involved can face consequences.
Additionally, he highlighted the importance of working with the Land Transport Authority (LTA) to uphold road safety and to eliminate reckless driving from the roads. With the New Year just around the corner, police in the Northern Division remain committed to ensuring public safety through foot patrols and traffic operations.
The LTA has also emphasized the issue of driver fatigue as a significant contributor to road accidents in Fiji. It is crucial for motorists to take breaks during long drives to prevent fatigue-related incidents. They also encouraged passengers to be vigilant and speak up if they observe signs of fatigue in the driver, such as drowsiness or erratic driving.
To enhance road safety, the LTA recommended adopting a “Stop, Revive, and Survive” approach. They asserted that any interference with police and LTA operations, such as creating platforms that alert drivers to checkpoints and speed cameras, must cease since these actions endanger the efforts aimed at making roads safer for all.
In summary, both police and transportation authorities in Fiji are taking active measures to promote road safety and reduce accidents, especially as the holiday season approaches. The call for cooperation from both drivers and passengers underlines a collective responsibility towards safer roads.
By focusing on communication, vigilance, and responsible driving, we can all contribute to a safer driving environment, fostering a culture of road safety within communities.
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