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Driving in Fiji vs. Samoa: Key Differences Explained

Discover the essential contrasts in road regulations and practices between Fiji and Samoa. From speed limits in urban areas to lane markings and traffic signal protocols, these nations showcase unique driving norms. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for ensuring a safe and enjoyable travel experience in either paradise.

Lanes

Markings: Solid Yellow Line
fiji:
Centerline on two-way roads; no crossing allowed.
samoa:
Marks the centerline on two-way roads.
Markings: Dashed Yellow Line
fiji:
Centerline on two-way roads; overtaking permitted.
samoa:
Centerline on two-way roads; passing permitted when safe.
Bus Lanes: Usage
fiji:
N/A
samoa:
N/A
Bus Lanes: Markings
fiji:
N/A
samoa:
N/A
Cycle Lanes: Usage
fiji:
N/A
samoa:
N/A
Cycle Lanes: Markings
fiji:
N/A
samoa:
N/A
High- Occupancy Lanes: Requirements
fiji:
N/A
samoa:
N/A
Variable Speed Limits: Indications
fiji:
N/A
samoa:
N/A

Speeds Limits

Urban Areas: Standard
fiji:
50 kph
samoa:
25-40 km/h
Urban Areas: Residential Zones
fiji:
30 kph
samoa:
20 km/h
Rural Areas: Cars And Motorcycles
fiji:
80 kph
samoa:
55-80 km/h
Rural Areas: Buses And Vans
fiji:
70 kph
samoa:
55-80 km/h
Rural Areas: Trucks And Trailers
fiji:
60 kph
samoa:
55-80 km/h
Highways: Cars And Motorcycles
fiji:
100 kph
samoa:
Not applicable
Highways: Buses And Vans
fiji:
90 kph
samoa:
Not applicable
Highways: Trucks And Trailers
fiji:
80 kph
samoa:
Not applicable
Speed Units
fiji:
kph
samoa:
km/h
Variable Speed Limits: Indications
fiji:
N/A
samoa:
N/A
Enforcement: On-the- Spot Fines
fiji:
Yes; fines can be issued at the scene
samoa:
Yes

Signals

Traffic Lights: Red And Amber Together
fiji:
Not used in Fiji
samoa:
Not used in Samoa
Horn Usage: Prohibited Times
fiji:
Unnecessary use discouraged; fines can apply
samoa:
Unnecessary use discouraged; local ordinances may apply
Traffic Signs: Language
fiji:
English; symbols are standard
samoa:
English and Samoan; symbols are standard

Turns

Right Turn On Red
fiji:
Not allowed.
samoa:
Not allowed
U- Turns Allowed
fiji:
Allowed only where indicated by signs
samoa:
Allowed unless prohibited by a sign

Documentation

Vehicle Inspection: Requirement
fiji:
Annual vehicle inspections are mandatory
samoa:
Annual inspection required
Vehicle Inspection: Sticker
fiji:
Displayed on the windshield
samoa:
Displayed on windshield

Road Etiquette

Use Of Horn: Cultural Norm
fiji:
Often used for greetings or to alert pedestrians and other vehicles
samoa:
Less frequent use compared to some countries

Alcohol

Limits: Professional Drivers
fiji:
0.05%
samoa:
0.02%
Limits: Underage Drivers
fiji:
0.00%; zero tolerance
samoa:
0.00% to 0.02%; zero tolerance
Enforcement: Random Checks
fiji:
Common; checkpoints frequently used
samoa:
Common
Enforcement: Fines
fiji:
Substantial fines, potential loss of license
samoa:
Varies; can be substantial

Roundabouts

Signaling: Exiting
fiji:
Signal right when preparing to exit
samoa:
Signal left when preparing to exit

Emergency Services

Contact: Traffic Police
fiji:
911 for emergencies; *000 for non-emergencies on mobile phones
samoa:
685-22-222
Contact: Roadside Assistance
fiji:
Contact your insurance provider
samoa:
Check with your insurance provider

Penalties And Fines

Common Fines: Speeding
fiji:
Varies; $50 to $500
samoa:
Varies; ST$50 to ST$500, points on license
Common Fines: Alcohol
fiji:
Varies; substantial fines, possible imprisonment
samoa:
Varies; substantial fines, possible jail time
Common Fines: Seat Belts
fiji:
Mandatory; fines can apply
samoa:
ST$100 to ST$200
Common Fines: Phone Use
fiji:
Use while driving is prohibited, fines apply
samoa:
ST$50 to ST$300
Common Fines: Traffic Light Violation
fiji:
Fines apply; obey signals
samoa:
ST$100 to ST$500, points on license
Payment: On The Spot
fiji:
Yes; fines can be issued at the scene
samoa:
Yes; fines usually paid online or by mail afterwards
Payment: Deadline
fiji:
Varies; typically within 7 to 14 days
samoa:
Varies; typically 30 days to pay