A driver who was caught on viral video driving a vehicle while sitting on a passenger’s lap in the driver’s seat has been charged with multiple offences following an investigation, according to the Transport Authority.
Authorities said in a statement on Thursday that as a result of a joint operation with the Jamaica Police Force, the driver was detained and charged with dangerous driving, driving with an excess of passengers, not having insurance, driving without a Transport Authority badge or uniform and driving contrary to the conditions of a road licence.
The authority further stated that the car was inspected by the Island Traffic Department and found to be in violation of the Public Passenger Vehicle (PPV) standards or laws, and as a result, the number plates were removed from the vehicle.
He identified himself as Calvin Cameron while publicly apologizing in a video.
But Transport Department managing director Ralston Smith said the department was considering other measures against drivers in line with its licence suspension and cancellation policy.
Additionally, the Transport Department and the Jamaica Police Force say they will continue to intensify public vehicle monitoring and enforcement activities to ensure public safety and compliance with the law.
Mr Smith reminded PPV drivers/operators that they are responsible for the lives of their passengers and have a duty of care to all road users. He stressed that such driving behaviour could put the lives of commuters and road users in general at risk.
Meanwhile, authorities encourage the public to make full use of WhatsApp (876 551-8196 or 876 926-8912) and the Drive Safe app to report various violations that may be committed by PPV operators so that appropriate sanctions can be applied.
Additionally, the transport department encourages commuters to choose only legal public passenger vehicles as their mode of transport.
