The Consumer Council of Fiji has issued a serious warning following a significant increase in complaints against driving schools, with over 57 grievances reported involving issues such as missing contracts, unfulfilled refunds, incomplete lessons, and aggressive conduct from instructors. The complaints collectively represent more than $21,000 in disputed fees.
CEO Seema Shandil highlighted that many students paid fees of up to $100 without having signed agreements, leaving them with no formal documentation to support their claims. This trend poses a serious threat to consumer rights and the quality of driver education in Fiji.
In light of these issues, the Council urges the public, particularly first-time drivers, to exercise caution before enrolling in driving schools. They recommend verifying the school’s credentials, asking pertinent questions, and ensuring that all payments and agreements are documented in writing.
The situation echoes recent efforts by the Land Transport Authority (LTA), which has also been taking a hard stance on safety and compliance in driving schools. Just last month, the LTA revoked the permits of 14 driving schools for not adhering to new regulatory standards aimed at elevating the quality of driver instruction. LTA Chief Executive Irimaia Rokosawa emphasized the relevance of strict compliance moving forward, stating that these initiatives are crucial for fostering responsible driving while reducing dangerous behavior among new drivers.
The combined efforts of the Consumer Council and the LTA present an optimistic outlook for improving driving education and safety standards in Fiji. With continuous monitoring and stricter regulations, there’s hope for a transformation that prioritizes both driver competency and consumer protection. Promoting accountability and transparency in driving schools is an essential step toward ensuring safer roads for all citizens.
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