An amendment to the Vehicles and Road Traffic (Traffic Signs) legislation is now in effect.

Acting Deputy Secretary in the Ministry of Communications and Works, Mr. Andrew St. Hilaire said the policy on traffic signs is to reflect standards that are more readily recognised by motorists and the public.

The amendment will introduce additional signage and regulations in a proactive approach to continuously enhance the quality of service provided. These include:

• Picture signage to match traditional word signs;
• Dual speed limits of miles per hour and kilometers per hour;
• Traffic control signage by uniformed or authorised police;
• Prohibition of hazardous material transported by trucks and excavators on roadway;
• Cell phone use prohibition;
• Expanded list of supplemental regulatory plaques;
• Enhanced crosswalk road marking;
• Parking space boundaries for accessibility parking;
• Improvements to speed bump markings;
• Flashing mode of traffic lights;
• Guide signs to provide street names, information to road users, directions to public places, and road user services;
• Emergency management information (emergency contacts)

The Road Traffic Act (Cap. 218) of the Laws of the Virgin Islands empowers the minister to make regulations for the kinds and descriptions of traffic signs for the safety, control and regulation of traffic.