Fix your vehicles before inspection – Gov’t Warns

Despite motorists being given a free hand to operate vehicles damaged during the hurricanes, the government is warning that it will be guided by regulations in the Road Traffic Act whenever vehicles are brought in for inspection.

The warning came from Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Communication and Works, Anthony McMaster who points out that laws governing the licensing of vehicles are still in effect.

A number of vehicles can be seen operating daily with making makeshift windscreens and side windows. Many have also been operating without rear-view mirrors, lights, and other safety apparatus.

“We would license vehicles based on the Road Traffic Act. So, if you are presenting your vehicle to be licensed then obviously we will go according to the Act and we will determine whether or not these vehicles that are being presented is roadworthy,” said McMaster.

The permanent secretary said however that the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles will still have the powers to exercise leniency where he sees it fit.

“If it is not roadworthy, then it is up to the Commissioner and his team to determine what sort of leniency they are willing to give based on the fact that the territory just sustained serious damage as a result of those two hurricanes.”

“But, any vehicle that is presented to be relicensed we expect them to be in full compliance with the law. Despite being through the hurricanes, the law is the law…if a vehicle is being presented without a windshield, I am pretty certain they will probably say no,” he said.