Fines for misuse of roads in Fiji

Authorities in Fiji are clamping down on misuse of roads in a move to reduce accidents and improve safety.

The Land Transport Authority and the Fiji Police Force have warned that activities such as using the road as a playing field, carelessly working onto the centre of the roads, taking up lanes meant for vehicles, and sitting on the side of roads posing a risk to passing vehicles can result in a $10 spot fine or a $200 (£70) court fine.

Fiji Police Force director of traffic, senior superintendent Mahesh Mishra said around 50 per cent of road accidents involve pedestrians.

“Roads are meant for vehicles and when the general public obstruct movements of vehicles, they not only endanger their own (pedestrian) lives but also place other lives at risk,” SSP Mishra said.

Misuse of public roads is governed under Regulation 62 and Regulation 87 of the Land Transport Traffic Regulation of 2000.

Another clause of the law linked to the misuse of public roads that will be enforced come October, prohibits the erection of roadside establishments.

“This would include BBQ stalls on footpaths obstructing the free flow of pedestrians,” LTA chief executive officer Naisa Tuinaceva said.

“Pedestrians are forced to walk onto the public road because of these obstruction and it poses risks to motorists and to their own lives as well.”

Regulations 65 and Regulation 87 stipulate on the spot fines of  $25 and up to a maximum of $500 in court.

“But we will need to carry out more awareness and raise public understanding about these offences,” Mr. Tuinaceva continued.

“We do this because we want to improve the safety of both pedestrians and vehicle owners.

“Traffic laws have been created in the public’s interest and for safety reasons and they need to be observed.”

For more information
Web: www.fiji.gov.fj