Over 6500 3rd lane violations caught on camera; 585 cases already before courts

The Guyana Police Force (GPF) has recorded more than 6,500 illegal third lane violations using footage from the Safe Road Intelligent System (SRIS), with hundreds of matters already heard and determined by the courts. Police said on Tuesday that 585 cases have so far been processed, resulting in fines and, in some instances, the suspension of drivers’ licences. The remaining matters are currently at various stages of review, charge preparation and prosecution. Illegal third lane driving occurs when motorists unlawfully use the outer edge or shoulder of a roadway as an additional traffic lane, rather than for its intended purpose. The GPF said the practice poses serious safety risks, undermines traffic order and significantly increases the likelihood of collisions, particularly along high-volume roadways.
According to police, third lane violations are not classified as ticketable offences under existing traffic regulations and must therefore be prosecuted before a Magistrate. Each incident captured by SRIS cameras is individually reviewed by trained police personnel, with footage carefully analysed, compiled and prepared as evidence for presentation in court. Once drivers are identified, police officers use electronic tablets to show motorists the recorded footage of the infraction as part of the verification and charge preparation process prior to court proceedings.
The GPF said it is strengthening its prosecutorial and administrative capacity to reduce delays and ensure a faster turnaround in advancing SRIS-related cases through the court system, as the scope of camera-based enforcement continues to expand nationwide. Police have again urged motorists to comply with traffic laws and desist from the unlawful use of roadway shoulders and outer lanes, warning that sustained enforcement will continue. In December, the Government announced plans to introduce significant reforms to road traffic laws, including increased fines for speeding and an expanded list of ticketable offences under the Safe Road Intelligent System. Authorities indicated that legislative amendments are being finalised to allow for wider use of e-ticketing, tougher penalties for dangerous and negligent driving, and the introduction of additional enforcement mechanisms such as a demerit point system.
At present, the e-ticketing component of SRIS is used primarily for speeding and seatbelt offences, with thousands of cases already recorded and substantial sums collected in fines. The proposed reforms are aimed at strengthening accountability among road users, reducing reckless driving and addressing the persistent rise in traffic accidents and fatalities across Guyana.