The Land Transport Authority (LTA) has issued a reminder to all car owners and enthusiasts about the importance of adhering to legal requirements for vehicle modifications. This compliance is essential to ensure that modifications are performed legally and safely, aligning with local regulations.
LTA Chief Executive Officer Irimaia Rokosawa emphasized the significance of these regulations for maintaining road safety and vehicle compliance throughout Fiji. He acknowledged that while modifications can improve a vehicle’s performance and appearance, they must be conducted in accordance with LTA regulations. “We encourage vehicle owners to pursue legal methods for modifying or enhancing their vehicles. All modifications require prior written approval from LTA to ensure safety and compliance with legal standards,” said Mr. Rokosawa.
With the increasing interest in vehicle customization, he stressed the necessity for changes to adhere to regulatory standards to protect vehicle occupants and the public. “It’s crucial that any modifications meet legal requirements. We are urging vehicle owners to follow the established process to avoid penalties, fines, or jeopardizing public safety,” he stated.
Mr. Rokosawa warned that failing to comply with modification regulations could lead to severe consequences and urged vehicle owners to take the appropriate steps and seek approval from LTA before proceeding with modifications. “Our ultimate aim is to keep Fiji’s roads safe by ensuring that all vehicles meet the necessary safety standards,” he remarked.
To facilitate compliance with LTA regulations, vehicle owners should take the following steps to obtain approval for modifications:
1. Identify Required Modifications: Determine the changes that require approval, such as bull bars, roof racks, and fog lamps.
2. Prepare Application Documentation:
– A letter outlining the purpose of the modification.
– Equipment specifications and plans.
– Manufacturer specifications or details of factory-fitted parts.
– Photos of the equipment and its installation.
3. Submit Application: Complete the appropriate application form and submit it to LTA for approval.
4. Await Approval: Do not make any modifications until written approval is received from LTA.
5. Regular Inspections: Ensure the vehicle complies with safety standards after modifications.
Mr. Rokosawa warned that vehicle owners who fail to adhere to LTA requirements under Section 38 of the Land Transport (Vehicles Registration and Construction) Regulations 2000 may face substantial fines. Individual offenders could receive a fixed penalty of $75, with potential maximum penalties up to $1000 or six months imprisonment. Companies may face a fixed penalty of $300, with a maximum penalty of $2000 or up to 12 months imprisonment.
He explained that such penalties are implemented to ensure public safety and adherence to road regulations. Vehicles with illegal modifications may not pass mandatory safety inspections needed for road use. If a vehicle fails these inspections, owners will incur additional costs to revert illegal modifications or make adjustments to meet LTA standards, increasing their financial burden.
Mr. Rokosawa concluded that vehicle safety is a shared responsibility, and following legal processes while maintaining compliance with LTA regulations can significantly reduce the risk of accidents.