The Fiji Police Force’s traffic control division reported issuing $3 million in Traffic Infringement Notices (TINs) throughout 2021, as revealed in their annual report presented to Parliament. A large portion of these fines, approximately $1 million, was attributed to speeding violations, while additional penalties included $125,000 for seatbelt infractions, $116,400 for drunk driving, and 2,373 notices for careless driving. The division issued $1.3 million in fines for other various traffic offenses.
The report highlighted the extensive enforcement activities undertaken by the traffic control division, which included the interception of nearly 290,000 vehicles, the conduct of more than 8,500 school patrols, and the organization of over 161,000 awareness activities aimed at enhancing road safety. A significant finding from the report noted that speeding consistently remains the primary cause of fatal accidents, indicating a pressing need to increase the number of speed detectors, which currently stands at 29. The report suggested that establishing additional traffic units could enhance command and control, contributing to road safety.
Notably, from August 2020 to July 2021, there were 36 recorded fatalities, showing a decrease from 52 in the previous year for the same period. This reduction in fatalities is a hopeful sign, reflecting the potential effectiveness of current enforcement strategies and public engagement in promoting safer driving practices.
Authorities underscore the importance of continued awareness and enforcement efforts, encouraging drivers to heed speed limits and respect road regulations. These ongoing initiatives not only aim to penalize offending drivers but also foster a culture of responsibility on the roads, ultimately contributing to safer travel for everyone in Fiji. The commitment by the Fiji Police to traffic safety continues to create a positive impact in the community, fostering hope for further improvements in road safety outcomes.
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