Thousands of motorists with outstanding traffic tickets and warrants are being warned that the debts will not disappear and could prevent them from completing future vehicle transactions.

Superintendent Elson Quammie said unpaid tickets are being entered into an electronic system that will allow the authorities to flag delinquent motorists.

He advised affected drivers to visit the Traffic Department or the Magistrates’ Court and settle the outstanding amounts.

Quammie said motorists could encounter difficulties when attempting to renew or license their vehicles if unpaid tickets remain attached to their records.

“There are thousands of tickets that are unpaid,” the Traffic Department head disclosed during the Browne and Browne Show.

The warning comes as police and traffic wardens increase enforcement in St John’s and other congested areas.

Quammie said consistent ticketing has already changed the behaviour of some motorists who previously parked illegally and obstructed traffic.

He referred to enforcement around busy commercial and entertainment areas where motorists had developed a practice of parking on both sides of the road.

After traffic wardens repeatedly issued tickets, drivers began complying with the regulations, he said.

Quammie maintained that enforcement must be sustained because some motorists quickly return to illegal behaviour when officers are no longer visible.

The Traffic Department is also conducting operations targeting unlicensed vehicles, uninsured motorists, illegal tint, offensive weapons and other violations.

Police have warned that vehicle licensing obligations and traffic penalties remain enforceable even if considerable time has passed since a ticket was issued.

Motorists who are unsure whether they have outstanding matters are being encouraged to check with the Traffic Department before attempting to renew their documents.