Cops warn errant drivers at demerit system launch

ERRANT drivers caught in a roadblock at the lay-by on the foreshore in St James during the launch of the demerit point and new ticketing system on Wednesday were let off with a warning.

But they were told the warning will be put on record and if they are caught for the same offences again they will have to face the full brunt of the law.

Police stopped one driver with two broken tail lights and one headlight, smooth tyres and three goats poorly secured on the tray of his pick-up truck. The violations would have left him with a fine of $3000, but because of a clause in the ticketing system, he would only have got about three demerit points.

The clause indicates if a driver is caught committing several offences, only the offence incurring the most demerits will be recorded.

The drivers were the first to be caught by exercises which utilise the new system.

Safety officer Brent Batson, speaking to reporters, said the new system would not have any effect on people if they simply obey the law.

“Just do the right thing,” he said. “It is the breaching of the laws that would get you in trouble. We want you on the right side.”

During the launch, Arrive Alive director Sharon Inglefield expressed gratitude and excitement, saying her organisation has been calling for a similar system for quite some time.

“As you know, we beat up on the ministry when things are not quite right, and we are extremely happy with regard to all the hard work that was done to achieve this milestone.

“This demerit system will definitely re-educate the driving public and rehabilitate reckless drivers. We see this as part of a rehabilitation for those who are really not obeying the law and threatening their lives and the lives of others.”

Police were equipped with mobile ticketing devices as well as ticket books for the exercise.

Police Commissioner Gary Griffith said the streamlined ticketing system will reduce the time police take to gather information and ensure they are more efficient while issuing tickets.

“We are in changing times. In the era of technology, this is welcome. Just a few years ago police officers would be hiding behind a lamppost and jumping out with a stick and then having books and writing. This here is not a cellphone. This will ensure greater efficiency and will ensure that my officers can get back out on patrol quickly after dealing with a motorist,” Griffith said.

“Above all, it is going to save lives. This will act as a major deterrent. It will make sure that people are aware that there are now consequences for their actions. As we continue with technology it will act toward further reducing the road fatalities.”

Minister of Works and Transport, Rohan Sinanan said the new system is about changing errant behaviour which puts lives at risk.

“I have heard people say, 'I could go on the bus route because I can afford to pay the fine. The fine is $2,000 so I could take the chance.' I heard people decide to speed because if they get a ticket they could pay, or it would be difficult for the authorities to even find me. So this system actually changes this behaviour,” he said.

Sinanan said because of the technology behind the system, there was greater consequence to actions on the road. People would not only have to pay a ticket, but would also have a demerit on their record, which could ultimately lead to a driver’s licence being suspended.

“This is not a revenue-earner for the government. This is about rehabilitating drivers and saving lives. There must be a culture change when we look at the road, and that is what the system is about.”