Regulation 262 (2) of the new Road Traffic Act, states that where a motor vehicle is for any reason stationary on a roadway or on the shoulder of a road, the driver should display at least two emergency warning signs:
- The signs shall be placed not less than 45 metres from the motor vehicle along the roadway, on the side of the roadway closest to the motor vehicle in both directions from which any traffic might approach.
- The signs shall be placed as far from the edge of the roadway as the transverse centre of the motor vehicle is from the edge of the roadway.
- The reflective side of each sign shall face the direction of oncoming traffic.
A person shall not without lawful cause remove or tamper with an emergency warning sign which is being displayed (regulation 262[3]).
Emergency warning signs are NOT required where a motor vehicle is stationary:
- In a place where a road traffic sign authorises the loading or unloading of a motor vehicle.
- In compliance with any direction conveyed by a road traffic sign or given by a constable or traffic warden.
- On account of other traffic on the road and while the driver occupies the driving seat of such vehicle.
- During events related to the carrying out of a government or municipal function.
Offences and Penalties
A person who fails to display an emergency warning sign, does so unlawfully (regulation 262[6]).
Offence
Failure to use an emergency warning days sign.
Penalty
On summary conviction in a Parish Court to a fine not exceeding $10,000 or to imprisonment to a term not exceeding six days.
$5,000 — where liability to conviction may be discharged by payment of a fixed sum.
Emergency Warning Sign
For additional information, contact:
Island Traffic Authority
38H Maxfield Avenue
Kingston 10
Tel: 876-754-1900-1/876-754-2590-3
Email: ps@miw.gov.jm
Website: hitps://mtm.gov.jm/ita
Facebook & Instagram: @mtmjamaica
Twitter: @MTMjamaica