The Chief Executive Officer of the Land Transport Authority, Leasi Vainalepa Galuvao reminded the public yesterday about the Give Way rule which is effective today. 

He said L.T.A. officials will be stationed on every corner of the road to assist members of the public with new rule. 

The effect of this new rule is to keep  Samoa’s road rules in line with New Zealand and Australia. 

Leasi said that all vehicles turning right, will give way to an oncoming vehicle that is turning left. 

The existing rule gives the driver turning right the right of way. 

This  rules applies to every intersection in Samoa except for at intersections which have traffic lights where the drivers will obey the lights.

The C.E.O. believes that this change will make driving in Samoa much easier for our relatives and friends as well as tourists from Australia and New Zealand. 

 “This is the rule that applies in New Zealand and Australia and we need to do the same since we drive on the same side of the road as they do,” said Leasi.  

 “It is just a minor change,” said Leasi. “I’m sure the drivers will learn fast. Looking at the change in New Zealand, they were only given a short period of time to adjust.” 

He added that the change would avoid many conflict points on the road since most of the accidents are caused by the ‘Give way’ rule.  

On top of that, the Authority will be working hand in hand with the Ministry of Police to ensure the safety of the public. 

The operation started this morning at 6am and L.T.A. are asking for  the support of the public.