Traffic Chief Mahendra Singh said vehicle owners who are not the drivers of motor vehicles that are breaching the speed limits are liable for paying the fines, however, they can contest the ticket in court.
Speaking to Ignite news in a telephone interview he also noted that not only will the owners be the main defendant in the cases, but the tickets will be added to their records as well. This could eventually lead to the suspension of their licenses, if the driver when contested in court does not pay.
“The owners can contest the ticket in court; 1. You can tell the magistrate that it was not you who was driving at the time and give the information of the driver to the court. The driver will then become a co-defendant in the matter and will be summoned by the court,” he explained.
Singh further explained “or 2. You can bring the person (driver) with you to the court and explain the situation. That person will then become liable.”
However, it is important to note that if the driver does not pay the fine then the owner must do so.
The Traffic Chief also cautioned that each ticket will be added to the defendant’s record and after 10 demerits the defendant’s licence will be suspended in keeping with the laws of Guyana. This applies to both the driver or owner depending on who pays the fine.
Singh further highlighted the need for a change in road culture. He urged all drivers to ensure they comply with the law and drive at a moderate rate to avoid accidents and reduce deaths and damages in the event of an accident occurring.
Meanwhile, President Irfaan Ali at a recent community meeting pointed out that the system has shown great progress in reducing speeding violations.
He pointed out that while over 275 cases of speeding were recorded on the first night of the E ticket system’s implementation, that number had decreased to 98 as of last Sunday.
