Reckless drivers face jail under tough new LTA rules

Fiji's Land Transport Authority (LTA) is cracking down on reckless driving, with new regulations giving authorities the power to criminalise traffic offences and jail repeat offenders.

LTA chief executive officer, Irimaia Rokosawa, said the move is aimed at saving lives amid rising road fatalities, with speeding remaining the leading cause of deadly crashes.

"We are working closely with the Fiji Police Force to ensure traffic offences are treated seriously," Mr Rokosawa said.

"This is not about fines alone. Serious breaches can now carry criminal penalties, including imprisonment."

The new rules will introduce two stages of provisional licences, giving LTA stronger authority over repeat offenders. Provisional drivers will face strict consequences: first offences extend the licence period by three months, a second offence adds another three months, and any further breach leads to immediate licence cancellation.

"Provisional drivers are now the jury of their own destiny," Mr Rokosawa said. "Comply with the rules, or face extended licence periods, cancellation, and even jail."

The LTA will also launch a demerit points system, similar to Australia and New Zealand, allowing automatic penalties for repeat offenders. Digital upgrades will integrate licence tracking, driving school audits, and enforcement measures, closing gaps that previously allowed reckless driving to go unpunished.

"These reforms are about protecting all road users, drivers, passengers, and pedestrians alike," he said. "Combined with higher fines and expanded speed camera coverage, there is no excuse for reckless driving."

Mr Rokosawa added that random drug tests and stricter driving school audits will further strengthen road safety.

"The message is clear: reckless driving will not be tolerated. The LTA and Police are united in ensuring that rule breakers face the full force of the law," he said. >Mere Ledua