The Land Transport Authority (LTA) is calling on all motorists to exercise increased vigilance and emphasizes the importance of road safety for children following the tragic accident that claimed the life of a 3-year-old boy in Kulukulu, Sigatoka. Initial reports indicate that the young boy was struck by a vehicle driven by a 38-year-old woman while crossing the road with his grandmother in Sigatoka Town.
LTA Chief Executive Officer Irimaia Rokosawa expressed heartfelt condolences to the families affected by this tragic incident, particularly highlighting the sorrow that comes with the loss of a young life. “The loss of any life on our roads is deeply tragic, but the death of a young child is particularly heartbreaking. Children are among the most vulnerable road users,” Rokosawa stated, underlining the critical responsibility of parents, guardians, and drivers to protect children.
Rokosawa urged motorists to prioritize safety, especially in areas frequented by children, such as schools and neighborhoods. He stressed that even a brief lapse in attention can lead to devastating outcomes. Drivers should exercise caution by reducing speed near pedestrian crossings and be particularly vigilant around school zones and busy urban streets.
While acknowledging the essential role drivers play in ensuring road safety, Rokosawa emphasized that pedestrians, especially children, also share in the responsibility of their own safety. He encouraged adults to closely supervise children near roads and to teach them essential traffic rules and safe crossing practices from an early age.
Moreover, he reminded drivers of the necessity to adhere to traffic signage, observe speed limits, and remain distraction-free while driving, particularly by avoiding the use of mobile phones.
The Authority is committed to enhancing road safety initiatives and continues to collaborate with the Fiji Police Force and other stakeholders in efforts aimed at raising public awareness and enforcing regulations to reduce road-related injuries and fatalities. These collective efforts highlight the significance of understanding and practicing road safety for the well-being of all road users, especially the youngest and most vulnerable.