Consumers to face increased fines for traffic violations!
Author : teriannI have been driving for the past seven years and in all that time I have only received one traffic ticket. This is quite an achievement as often there are a many ’hot-spots’ where on any given day, police line the streets waiting for the next traffic violator.
I often wonder where these same police are when the buses whiz by as if they are trying to complete for some unknown record for the vehicle with the highest speed. I especially enjoy when they turn into my lane without indicating then stop suddenly in front of me.
Regardless of the actions of many drivers on our roads, it is important that all motorists obey the traffic rules so we can remain safe on our roads.
In the past the tickets issued for traffic violations were annoying but for the most part affordable although that depends on who you ask as most persons find any amount on a traffic ticket a hardship to pay. The amount to be paid by the offending motorist depended on the violation and ranged from $500.00 – $10,000.
However things are changing, as according to The Gleaner dated June 8, 2014, “under the proposed new Traffic Act, the fines for some offences could increase by up to 300 per cent, which could cause motorists to pay up to $45,000 for one speeding ticket.”
Well that certainly shakes things up! That amount is most person’s mortgage, rent and school fee all rolled into one!
Will the increase be effective?
I can’t speak for anyone else of course, but in my opinion one of two things will happen, either there will be more accidents as people try to outrun the police so that they don’t have to pay the fines or everyone will start driving safely.
I suppose the second choice might be a bit idealistic as raising the cost of the tickets over the years has not really stopped traffic violators but this massive increase might serve as a deterrent to those who are determined to keep their hard earned cash in their pocket!
So the best thing to do is to avoid speeding and obey all the traffic rules.
What do you think about the increase in fines for traffic violators? Let me hear from you!
Teri Ann Renee Paisley
Gleaner Online Writer
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5 Responses to “Consumers to face increased fines for traffic violations!”
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Corrupt cops will now have a field day. Only the pope (I forget whag his name is) would prefer to pay the govt a $45,000 fine instead of paying 5 or 10 thousand to the corrupt cop.
Personally I think the high fines will be somewhat of a deterrent to those who like to break the traffic laws. What is wrong with Jamaican drivers? These are the same people when they come to the US they conform to every rule.
The other thing is, the business of corruption needs to be looked at because Jamaicans will always find a way to beat the system. While I think the high fines is a great idea it might be putting the cart before the horse. It’s like everything is wrong with Jamaica. It’s a failed state IMO
And those who are scared of high fines, simple. Don’t break the law!
I hear you Donny! If only everyone would obey the traffic rules!
Driving in Jamaica is absolutely horrible and repugnant. Constant stopping in front of you, pulling out in front of you, forcing turns from the wrong lanes and boring in merge lanes when their lane ends…and having the gall to yell at you and tell you that YOU are the bad driver!!! Not to mention the pedestrians, bicyclist and motorcyclists who think they own the road and have no laws to abide by themselves. Here is what should happen: there should not only be “speed traps”, but also PATROLS. You break the law, you get pulled over and fined heavily. You cause near accidents and road rage, you lose your license. You cause an accident or a fatality, you lose your license, car, and go to jail. And, here is a way around the allegedly “corrupt cops”—forget bribes and paying for licenses—make a national law for all vehicle sales that if one can not demonstrate the ability and willingness to operate a motor vehicle safely, correctly, and courteously, then they are not allowed (forbidden) to purchase a vehicle in the first place. Period. No car, no bad driving. Just make sure there is also a law in place to keep those who don’t make the cut ON THE SIDEWALKS and out of the streets when they are suddenly walking!
Eventually, the bubble will burst and all of these inconsiderate jackasses will meet up with someone who has had enough and they will be beaten beyond recognition in the street!
Strong sentiments Chris! I have also been a victim of the terrible driving on our roads. It almost seems as if everyone drives as if they have never heard about road safety. There might not be one easy solution as some drivers seem to think the rules of the road are suggestions and can be broken at any opportunity.