The Land Transport Authority (LTA) has issued a strong warning to social media influencers and all road users to refrain from engaging in dangerous driving practices, such as using phones and other devices to record while driving. Acting LTA Chief Executive Irimaia Rokosawa emphasized that such reckless behaviors, often showcased on platforms like Facebook and TikTok, are illegal and pose serious risks to road safety.
Rokosawa noted a concerning rise in videos featuring dangerous driving that influencers have been posting. He stated, “These videos, which can draw thousands of viewers, mistakenly communicate that such actions behind the wheel are acceptable, which is far from the truth.” He underscored the importance of understanding that distracted driving, especially with mobile devices, is both illegal and dangerous.
He urged influencers and all drivers to cease these actions and prioritize road safety. The LTA’s enforcement team is actively monitoring social media to identify and tackle dangerous driving content.
Rokosawa highlighted the severe consequences of distractions while driving, asserting that using electronic devices significantly increases the risk of accidents and endangers everyone on the road. He mentioned that speeding, drunk driving, driver fatigue, and other distractions are leading factors in fatal accidents, urging drivers to acknowledge the seriousness of these behaviors and take responsibility.
The Authority plans to boost its enforcement efforts, particularly during peak travel periods, in response to recent incidents and a rise in dangerous driving. Enforcement personnel will be deployed to monitor busy areas, especially around transport hubs like bus and taxi stands, major roads, and accident-prone locations.
Strict adherence to speed limits and traffic regulations will be enforced with a focus on identifying and preventing reckless and impaired driving. “Our priority is to ensure the safety and well-being of all road users,” Rokosawa stated. “By increasing our enforcement efforts, we aim to foster a safer driving environment and diminish the number of road accidents.”
The public can report reckless driving or unsafe behavior through the LTA’s complaints system by texting 582 or emailing help@lta.com.fj or complaints@lta.com.fj.