Jamaicans are up in arms with the New Road Traffic–Act 2022. Public passenger vehicle operators are especially exercised over a stipulation that requires them to provide child restraints. Still, except for a few changes here and there, the Act is familiar.
But the most significant pain point is the fines. And believe me, the law enforcement officers are issuing tickets like there is no tomorrow.
Still, citizens should understand that even though enforcing the road traffic Act seems like punishment, it is not. The three main reasons police enforce the Road Traffic Act are SAFETY–to bring some semblance of sanity to the public thoroughfare. At the moment, some people are afraid to traverse the roads. The next reason is to collect revenue to repair roads and bridges. Finally, I think the other reason is to ensure that the vehicles traveling on Jamaica’s thoroughfare are roadworthy. Unfortunately, too many accidents occurred because the vehicle/vehicles involved were not roadworthy.
I understand the frustration that is blowing through the air now that the police are enforcing sections of the law that they have overlooked for decades. And some people cannot wrap their heads around what’s happening because everything seems strange and foreign. But if you took a step back and analyze the situation, you will understand that enforcing the New Road Traffic Act is for the public good.
One of taxi operators’ significant concerns is the stipulation requiring public passenger vehicle operators to provide child restraints. But even though that particular requirement may seem unfair, it is not far fetch. For example, in the United States, restaurants must provide high chairs for babies and children under five.
Nevertheless, the Minister responsible for information has promised that the National Safety Council will review the requirements in its next meeting on February 9, 2023.
“In keeping with our consistent review, the Government will require deliberation on the matter at the next meeting of the Road Safety Council. The National Road Safety Council is set to meet on February 9, 2023, where the Prime Minister will consider the first review,” Morgan said.
Robert Morgan–Jamaica’s Minister of Information
Under the New Road Traffic Act, motorists will incur a $5,000 fine if caught transporting a child in a vehicle without a restraint system.