The Fiji Police Force has reported 13 serious road accidents this year, according to Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Mitilei Divuana, Director of Traffic and Transport Control. With the school year set to begin soon, the police stress that road safety should be the top priority for all drivers.

SSP Divuana expressed concern about the high number of serious accidents, many of which are attributed to drivers losing control of their vehicles due to speeding and fatigue. “Out of the total 13 serious accidents recorded, 11 involved vehicles that veered off the roads as a result of these factors,” he stated.

In a call to action, SSP Divuana urged drivers to plan their journeys, take necessary breaks during long trips, and avoid rushing. “Safety must be your top concern,” he insisted.

A positive aspect of this year’s statistics is the absence of any road fatalities in the same timeframe, in contrast to two fatalities reported last year. This decrease demonstrates the potential for improved road safety, highlighting the effectiveness of ongoing awareness campaigns led by the Fiji Police and other road safety advocates.

Recent discussions surrounding road safety have underscored the critical importance of responsible driving behavior, particularly with various community events approaching. The volume of speeding tickets being issued daily is a testament to the area of concern. Police officials continue to remind the public that speeding not only jeopardizes the driver’s safety but also poses serious risks to all road users.

By promoting safe driving practices and emphasizing the importance of time management, the Fiji Police Force hopes to maintain the momentum toward reducing road accidents and fatalities. It’s a collaborative effort—everyone on the road has a role to play in fostering a safer driving environment.

In summary, while the number of serious accidents is troubling, the absence of fatalities is encouraging. The community’s adherence to road safety principles can lead to continued improvement, ensuring that Fiji’s roads are safer for everyone.