Fiji’s Parliament has officially approved the Land Transport Amendment Bill, marking a pivotal shift in the nation’s driver licensing system with the aim of boosting road safety. This amendment introduces a comprehensive framework for provisional licenses, altering the progression model for new drivers throughout their various licensing phases.
Transport Minister Ro Filipe Tuisawau highlighted that these changes are designed to bolster regulations surrounding novice drivers and ensure adherence to up-to-date legislative standards. This move comes in light of alarming statistics; Fiji recorded 54 road fatalities in 2024, which is a significant decrease from 78 in 2023. However, Tuisawau noted that approximately 20 percent of last year’s fatalities involved provisional license holders who were engaged in speeding and reckless driving.
Under the new licensing system, critical changes are being made: provisional drivers caught violating traffic laws will see their provisional period extend by an additional three months. If they accumulate three offenses, they risk license suspension and must restart their journey as learner drivers. This legislation aims to nurture more responsible driving behaviors within the novice driver population and empowers the Land Transport Authority (LTA) to implement stricter enforcement measures.
Supporting this initiative, Independent MP Faiyaz Koya emphasized that possessing a full license is inadequate without a focus on responsible driving practices. Additionally, Joseph Nand advocated for the inclusion of night driving training in driving school programs to better equip new drivers with essential skills.
Minister Tuisawau also urged for more rigorous vehicle inspections to mitigate defects and bolster overall safety, particularly in regard to the use of high beams at night, an issue many drivers appear to overlook. He stressed that while drivers may succeed in passing tests, achieving maturity and responsible conduct on the road remains a significant challenge. His worries extended to regulating electric vehicles and the roles of driving schools and parental involvement in educating young drivers.
The passage of the Land Transport Amendment Bill represents a constructive movement towards fostering a culture of responsible driving in Fiji. The proactive measures, alongside other ongoing initiatives, underscore a commitment to enhancing road safety, which could lead to further declines in traffic-related incidents and cultivate a safer environment for all road users. There is a hopeful outlook that these legislative reforms will profoundly change how drivers regard safety on Fiji’s roads in the future.
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