21-year-old dies following injuries sustained in accident at Tavua

A 21-year-old man lost his life after suffering injuries in an accident that occurred along Kings Road near Draunivi, Tavua.

Director Traffic, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Mitieli Divuana is pleading with drivers to take the warnings on the dangers of speeding seriously, as initial information gathered by traffic investigators point to alleged speeding as the cause of the fatal accident.

It is alleged that while the driver was trying to overtake another car, he lost control of his vehicle, resulting in the accident yesterday afternoon.

SSP Divuana says the victim was rushed to the Tavua Hospital, where he was admitted, but unfortunately passed away this morning.

Four people travelling with the victim have been treated.

SSP Divuana says road safety stakeholders continue to issue reminders about road safety, whether it be through the media or during traffic stops conducted in all five divisions.

He adds that despite this, drivers continue to be booked exceeding the national speed limit, and this is reflected in the accident and fatality statistics, with speeding a contributing factor.

The Director Traffic says speeding continues to be a concern, and they are booking drivers every day exceeding the speed limit despite warnings and advisories issued by Police and the Land Transport Authority.

He says traffic officers at checkpoints are also issuing these reminders, yet they continue to fall on deaf ears.

SSP Divuana says the road death toll currently stands at 31 compared to 57 for the same period last year, and together, we can keep the statistics from growing if we all acknowledge and accept our responsibilities when it comes to road safety.