LTA targets driver fatigue in North

The Land Transport Authority (LTA) has stepped up its call for safer road use, highlighting driver fatigue as a major cause of serious and fatal crashes.

This follows the rollout of the “Stop, Revive, Survive” campaign in the Northern Division this week in partnership with Nestlé.

LTA media liaison officer Geraldine Panapasa said the campaign aimed to address driver fatigue, which remains one of the most overlooked risks on Fiji’s roads.

Ms Panapasa said fatigue was a silent contributor to many accidents, especially during long-distance travel.

“Drivers often underestimate how quickly tiredness can impair reaction time, decision-making, and overall awareness behind the wheel,” Ms Panapasa said.

She said fatigue-related crashes were often severe because of delayed braking or failure to react in time.

“While speeding and careless driving remain leading causes of crashes, fatigue is equally dangerous and can worsen poor judgement and reduced concentration,” she said.

She emphasised pedestrian negligence as another contributing factor to road fatalities, stressing the need for shared responsibility among all road users.

Through its partnership with Nestlé, the campaign has introduced designated roadside rest stops, known as “Nestlé nests”, where drivers are encouraged to take breaks before continuing their journeys.

Temporary rest areas were set up at Wailevu and the Fiji Sugarcane Corporation (FSC) junction on Tuesday in Labasa.

Road safety teams will continue public outreach at the Savusavu Pavilion near the new National Fire Authority (NFA) building yesterday, in Seaqaqa today from 9.30am to 10.30am, and in Nabouwalu tomorrow from 10am to 11am.

“Taking a break could be the difference between life and death,” she said.

Ms Panapasa added that the community engagements were part of a broader strategy to reach drivers directly, particularly those travelling long distances in rural areas.

The authority is urging drivers, passengers, and pedestrians to remain vigilant, prioritise rest, and make safety a priority.