BASSETERRE – The Traffic Department has announced plans to introduce photo radar technology across the Federation in an effort to combat speeding and reduce traffic accidents on local roads.
The state-of-the-art speed enforcement devices will be randomly deployed at select hotspots throughout the islands where speeding and collisions occur most frequently. The photo radar units will automatically capture both the speed and images of vehicles exceeding legal limits.
Data collected by the system will be analyzed by authorities, who will then generate and serve traffic tickets to owners of vehicles caught violating posted speed limits.
Under the new enforcement regime, motorists face steep penalties for speeding violations. The minimum fine is set at $250 for exceeding the speed limit. An additional $100 will be added for every 10 miles per hour over the limit after the first 10 miles. This means a driver traveling 20 mph over the limit will receive a $350 fine, while driving 30 mph over will result in a $450 penalty.
The Traffic Department emphasized that excessive speed remains one of the leading causes of serious and fatal accidents on the nation’s roads. Officials stated the initiative is part of ongoing efforts to promote road safety, reduce reckless driving, and prevent tragic collisions.
“We therefore urge all motorists to slow down, obey posted speed limits, and exercise caution at all times,” the department said in its announcement. “Together, we can make our roads safer for everyone.”
The department did not specify an exact launch date for the photo radar program, noting only that implementation would begin “soon.”