TTPS Urges Drivers To Adhere To Road Traffic Laws — Or Face Significant Fines

The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) said it has noted the recent amendments of 9th Schedule of the Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic Act, Chapter 48:50 via Legal Notices 471 and 496 of 2025, together with the Finance Act of 2025 (Act 14 of 2025), which has featured increases of the Fixed Penalty fines associated with traffic violations listed in the schedule. 

In a Media Release on Thursday (1st January, 2026), the TTPS said most notable are the increases for high-risk traffic violations such as exceeding the speed limit, where a motorist can now be issued a $4,500 Fixed Penalty Notice, where found exceeding a roadway’s specified speed limit by thirty-one (31) kilometres per hour or more. Failing to have a Certificate of Insurance for a vehicle, contrary to Section 3 of the Motor Vehicle Insurance (Third Party) Risks Act, Chapter 48:51 can now lead to a motorist receiving a $10,000 Fixed Penalty Notice by Law Enforcement Officers. 

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

The increases in fines have come into effect on 1st January, 2026 and the TTPS is appealing to motorists to practice compliance via adherence to all road traffic laws and ensure that vehicles are inspected and have a valid Certificate of Insurance.

The TTPS is also reminding the public that any driver arrested for DUI offences during traffic enforcement operations will now be subject to the increased fines, which were introduced in the amendments via the Finance Act 2025, with drivers now facing a fine of up to $24,000 for a first-time offence for exceeding breath alcohol limit and up to $45,000 for a second offence. 

According to the TTPS, “Drivers should aim to avoid these significant fines and penalties by complying with road traffic regulations and obeying the Highway Code and, of course, where necessary, ensuring there is a designated driver behind the wheel or utilizing taxis or ride-share services.”

For 2025, there has been a 9% decrease in road traffic deaths, with 113 persons dying in road traffic accidents, compared to 124 for 2024.

Please be guided accordingly.