The Land Transport Authority (LTA) has yet to receive formal complaints regarding glare and visibility issues caused by vehicles equipped with light-emitting diode (LED) and high-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps. During a recent comment, LTA’s CEO, Irimaia Rokosawa, acknowledged that while there are concerns about glare from such lights, there have been no complaints logged so far.
Rokosawa clarified that factory-fitted HID and LED lights are permitted provided they meet international safety standards. However, retrofitting these lights is strictly prohibited due to the risks associated with increased glare, which can be hazardous when driving at night or in poor weather conditions. He emphasized that both low and high beams must be correctly positioned and adjusted to minimize glare for oncoming drivers.
Feedback from drivers indicates that the issue is significant. Rita Fiona, an experienced driver, expressed that the glare from oncoming vehicles can be blinding, leading her to slow down for safety. She noted that the struggle to adjust to the bright lights creates an additional fatigue factor during long drives.
Echoing these sentiments, Ashwin Lal, general secretary of the Fiji Taxi Association, stated that although the LTA is aware of the glare issue, there has been a lack of monitoring and accountability. He urged drivers to adjust their beams appropriately to enhance safety, especially given the current poor road conditions that make visibility challenging.
This situation highlights an ongoing need for increased awareness and responsibility among drivers when it comes to vehicle lighting. Enhanced education about the correct use and adjustment of headlights could contribute positively to road safety.
In a broader context, addressing visibility concerns aligns with recent proactive efforts from the LTA, which has heightened enforcement measures in response to increasing road safety issues. Overall, it is hoped that fostering a culture of compliance and vigilance among drivers can lead to a safer driving environment for all on Fiji’s roads.
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