Cell Phones To Be Curtailed Under New Traffic Law In Jamaica

KINGSTON, Jamaica CMC – The authorities on Wednesday, announced plans to clamp down on the use of electronic hand held devices by motorists, through the tabling of the revised Road Traffic Bill in Parliament.

Other proposed road traffic changes in the Bill include the mandatory training and certification of driving instructors and a longer period for holding a learner’s permit. Also, contained is the granting of increased powers to the Island Traffic Authority, which is amidst a major transformation and modernization exercise.

Earlier this month, Transport Minister Dr. Omar Davies said when the legislation is passed, Jamaica will have a modernized Road Traffic Act and regulations predicated on ensuring that road safety issues are addressed according to 21^st century requirements.

“We intend to launch pre-emptive strikes against those who are intent on creating imbalances in the traffic environment. This new Act and regulations will, among other things, deal with the issue of driving while using mobile phones, including ‘texting’ while driving,” he told delegates to the recently held International Road Federation (IRF) Caribbean Regional Congress in Montego Bay.

He said studies have shown that a motorist has only 90 percent control of the vehicle when texting and driving.

There are also plans to automate testing of applicants for driver’s licences this financial year. In an effort to address documentation challenges at depots, the Transport Ministry’s Information Management Department is partnering with eGov Services for automation of vehicle fitness information.