The Parliament has officially passed the Land Transport Amendment Bill, ushering in a new era for Fiji’s driver licensing system aimed at enhancing road safety. The amendment introduces a structured framework for provisional licenses, fundamentally changing how new drivers transition through various licensing stages.
Transport Minister Ro Filipe Tuisawau emphasized that these modifications aim to strengthen regulations for novice drivers and ensure they align with current legislative standards. This initiative comes in response to concerning statistics; Fiji reported 54 road fatalities in 2024, a notable decrease from 78 in 2023. However, Tuisawau pointed out that around 20 percent of last year’s fatalities involved provisional license holders engaged in speeding and reckless driving.
The newly established licensing system introduces significant changes: provisional drivers who violate traffic laws will see their provisional period extended by an additional three months. If these individuals accumulate three offenses, they risk losing their licenses and may have to restart their journey as learners. This law is designed to promote more responsible driving habits among new drivers and allow the Land Transport Authority (LTA) to enforce stricter measures effectively.
In addition to the Minister’s remarks, Independent MP Faiyaz Koya expressed support for the bill, stressing that merely having a right to a full license is insufficient without a strong emphasis on responsible driving. Joseph Nand advocated for integrating night driving training into driving school curricula to further enhance the skills of new drivers.
Minister Tuisawau also called for stricter vehicle inspections to address defects and improve overall safety, particularly concerning high beam usage at night, which many drivers are reportedly unaware of. He reiterated that while drivers may pass their tests, maturity and responsible behavior on the road remain critical challenges. The Minister expressed concern over regulating electric vehicles, the role of driving schools, and the influence of parental guidance in teaching young drivers.
Overall, the passage of the Land Transport Amendment Bill represents a positive step toward fostering a culture of responsible driving in Fiji. The proactive measures combined with ongoing initiatives highlight a commitment to improving road safety, potentially leading to further reductions in traffic-related incidents and fostering a safer environment for all road users. There is hope that these legislative changes will create a significant impact on the way drivers approach road safety in the future.
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