A national dashcam referral programme could be Jamaica’s next step forward

THE EDITOR, Madam:

Every Jamaican knows that our roads reflect the wider struggle with indiscipline and disregard for the law. While the new Road Traffic Act and improved enforcement have made some difference, the reality is that the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) cannot be everywhere at once. This is where technology and community partnership can provide a new solution.

I propose a national dashcam referral programme that would allow motorists to submit dashcam footage of traffic violations to the JCF. The footage would only contain information already public, such as licence plate numbers and the recorded act of indiscipline. Importantly, due process would be safeguarded: each submission would be reviewed by the police before any ticket is issued. If the violator pays the fine, the reporting motorist would receive a portion of the revenue as a reward.

No one should pretend that this comes without an added administrative burden for the JCF. A dedicated unit or digital portal would be needed to process and verify submissions. Yet the potential benefits make this a logical next step for road safety and quality of life in Jamaica:

Expanded Enforcement Reach: With thousands of dashcams already on our roads, enforcement could extend far beyond the limits of police presence.

Changed Behaviour: If motorists know that any driver could report violations, many will think twice before breaking the law.

Revenue Neutral: Payouts to reporters would only occur after fines are paid, avoiding financial risk to the state.

Shared Responsibility: It turns road safety into a community effort instead of leaving the burden solely on the police.

Other countries have implemented similar programmes successfully. Jamaica can design ours to meet our unique context, starting with a pilot in high-traffic areas and building the necessary safeguards against abuse.

Indiscipline on our roads is not an abstract issue. It affects commerce, public health, and, most tragically, lives. This proposal represents a chance to leverage citizen participation and technology to make a tangible difference. It may require the JCF to adopt new systems, but the payoff — safer roads, saved lives, and a more orderly society — is well worth the effort.

Isn’t that the next logical step in improving the quality of life for all Jamaicans?

JAVON MOATT