The Land Transport Authority (LTA) is urging social media influencers and all road users to immediately stop engaging in dangerous driving behaviors, including the use of mobile phones and other devices to film while driving. LTA Acting Chief Executive Irimaia Rokosawa highlighted that these reckless actions, often showcased on platforms like Facebook and TikTok, are not just illegal but also create significant risks to road safety.
Rokosawa noted a concerning rise in videos featuring dangerous driving practices, including the use of electronic devices for recording while driving. He warned that such videos often attract thousands of views and convey the misleading notion that these behaviors are acceptable, which is far from the truth. The LTA emphasizes that such activities are illegal and irresponsible.
He stated, “Posting videos of reckless driving on social media is not only dangerous but deeply irresponsible. It sets a dangerous precedent for other drivers who may see these actions as acceptable. We want to make it very clear that driving while distracted by mobile phones or other gadgets is illegal and highly dangerous.”
Rokosawa encouraged influencers and all motorists to prioritize safety on the roads. The Authority’s enforcement team is actively monitoring social media to identify and address these hazardous activities.
The chief executive pointed out that the consequences of such distractions can be severe. Using electronic devices while driving raises the risk of accidents and endangers the lives of everyone on the road. He added that speeding, dangerous driving, driving under the influence, driver fatigue, and improper steering can significantly contribute to fatal accidents, emphasizing the need for drivers to acknowledge the seriousness of these actions and take responsibility.
In light of recent incidents and a growing trend of dangerous driving behaviors, the Authority will intensify enforcement efforts, especially during this peak travel season. Enforcement personnel will monitor high-traffic areas, focusing on popular transport hubs like bus and taxi stands, major roads, and known accident-prone areas.
Rokosawa confirmed that speed limits and traffic regulations will be strictly enforced, concentrating on detecting and deterring reckless and impaired driving as well as other dangerous conduct.
“Our priority is to ensure the safety and well-being of all road users. By ramping up our enforcement efforts, we aim to create a safer driving environment and reduce the number of road accidents,” he stated.
Reckless driving or unsafe behaviors can be reported through LTA’s complaints register at 582 via text or through email at help@lta.com.fj or complaints@lta.com.fj.