The Land Transport Authority (LTA) has made a decisive move by canceling the driver’s licenses of eight individuals linked to fatal accidents. This includes a 21-year-old truck driver whose actions led to a tragic incident last week on Princes Road in Tacirua, resulting in the loss of a 13-year-old student’s life.
LTA CEO Irimaia Rokosawa stated that these individuals were summoned for showcause proceedings under the Land Transport (Driver) Regulations 2000. The young truck driver, who was operating the vehicle with an expired Learners Permit at the time of the crash, has been banned from driving for five years due to the seriousness of the event.
Rokosawa underscored that this action sends a strong message about the repercussions of reckless driving. He emphasized the importance of adhering to license conditions, stating that violating road safety rules endangers everyone. “The authority has zero tolerance for reckless driving, and swift action will be taken against those who jeopardize lives on our roads,” he reiterated.
The horrible crash has highlighted increasing concerns over reckless driving behaviors. Mr. Rokosawa asserted that safe driving is not merely a personal duty but a broader social responsibility. He cautioned that a single moment of negligence could lead to irreversible consequences.
In response to these alarming trends, the LTA is joining forces with the Fiji Police Force to address repeat traffic offenders and review the current regulations. According to Section 268 (a) of the Crimes Act 2009, reckless driving is classified as a summary offense, with penalties reaching two years of imprisonment.
Rokosawa committed to continuing proceedings against drivers who openly flout road safety rules, expressing concern over fatal incidents caused by individuals operating without valid licenses. The cancellation of the truck driver’s license and those of others reflects a wider strategy to combat reckless driving, which has continuously been associated with rising incidents of speeding, negligence, and inattention.
This initiative by the LTA signifies a proactive approach to ensuring road safety. By encompassing both punitive measures and collaborative efforts with law enforcement, there is hope for a future where safer driving practices can reduce the number of tragic accidents on the roads, ultimately fostering a more responsible driving culture in the community.
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