By Alicia Chamely

THE Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) is calling on the public to adhere to road traffic laws to avoid the new hefty penalties for traffic violations.

In a press release on Thursday, the TTPS noted there was a 12% drop in road traffic fatalities in 2025, compared to the same time period in 2024.

Encouraged by this, the TTPS called on the public to continue practicing road safety to not only preserve life, but to avoid the increased fines for traffic violations as laid forth in recently amended Ninth Schedule of the Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic Act, Chapter 48:50, effected through Legal Notice No. 471 of 2025.

The TTPS stated the amended Act included an increase of 85% in penalties for traffic violations.

Violations, for which the penalties had been increased substantially, included exceeding the speed limit, and failing to have a valid certificate of insurance, both of which would result in a $6,000 and $10,000 fixed penalty notice respectively.

The TTPS stated the amendment reflected “significant consequences for the breaches of road traffic regulations by motorists and requires drivers to be more vigilant in adhering to the rules of the roads.”

The TTPS further cautioned drivers of the increase in DUI offenses, which not only include arrest but severe penalties.

Drivers were reminded that under the amended Act, first time offenders for exceeding the breath alcohol limit were subject to a $24,000 fine and up to $45,000 for a second offence.

The TTPS, therefore, encouraged drivers to avoid these penalties by practicing responsible driving.

“As Trinidad and Tobago moves into 2026, the TTPS calls on all road users to play their part,” the TTPS stated, “Obey the law, protect lives, and help us continue reducing road fatalities across the nation.”