EXPECT MORE CORRUPTIONS IN JAMAICA : Motorists say cops will benefit as road users try to avoid high fines of new traffic Bill

BY DEANDRA MORRISON Online reporter morrisond@jamaicaobserver.com  Monday, February 12, 2018

SOME motorists believe that the heavy fines and other penalties under the new Road Traffic Bill that was last week approved by the House of Representatives will only result in more police corruption, even as it is being touted by Government as giving police “full control of the roadway”.

Policemen issuing ticket

The Road Traffic Bill, 2016, will replace the current Road Traffic Act of 1938, and it is anticipated that it will allow for effective policing to reduce road fatalities, limit speeding, control loud noises and heavy tinting, as well as the use of cellphones, earphones and other communication devices while driving.

It will establish new offences as well as provide increased penalties for activities like driving without required motor vehicle insurance coverage ($20,000); driving without a licence or permit ($40,000); driving a motor vehicle without a permit entitling the driver to use the vehicle ($30,000); exceeding speed limits ($6,000 - $15,000); loud noises and failure to wear protective helmet ($5,000); failure to comply with traffic signs ($10,000); and failure to stop at pedestrian crossings ($12,000). more