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By Nakinskie Robinson
Amid public furore from motorists who believe they have been wrongfully ticketed by law enforcement for the use of electronic devices while driving, a new directive has been issued by the Jamaica Constabulary Force.
These devices, including mobile phones, must be observed in the hands of a motorist by the police, to enable prosecution under the Road Traffic Act, 2018.
This new directive, which takes immediate effect, was issued by the Jamaica Constabulary Force following a National Security Council meeting with the police high command, Prime Minister Andrew Holness and the Ministry of Transport.
Friday's meeting addressed emerging issues with the implementation and enforcement of the Road Traffic Act, 2018 and Regulations, 2022 and proposed amendments to ensure practical enforcement and public safety.
Several motorists have complained that they have been ticketed for having a mobile phone in their laps.
There has also been an issue with having a device mounted on dashboards.
The offence attracts a $10,000 fine.
Among other issues deliberated were the exemption of public passenger vehicle operators from the prescribed child restraint system and the renewal of a driver's licence for persons 70 years and older.
The reduction of the demerit points system for some offences and the designation of school safety zones were also discussed.
Meanwhile, considerations are also being made to temporarily suspend the enforcement of some offences from the Traffic Ticket Management System until full support mechanisms are in place.
Final deliberations of the amendments will be undertaken by an Operationalisation Committee which will be established to manage the implementation plan.
The completed list of amendments is expected to be brought before Parliament within the next two months.
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