WITH THE APPROACH of the Yuletide season, it is expected that more persons will be travelling, resulting in an increase in vehicular traffic.
Historical data indicate that during the festive season, accidents and resulting fatalities increase. It is with this in mind that Senior Superintendent Elan Powell, in charge of the Police Traffic Department, has taken the initiative to ensure strict compliance with the provisions of the Road Traffic Act.
Senior Superintendent Powell said he expects measures to be implemented during the festive season, will see a reduction in the number of accidents, hence a reduction in the number of road fatalities.
Among the measures are:
* Increased police presence on the roads.
* More vigilance by police personnel.
* Special focus on drivers who consume alcoholic.
SSP Powell said traffic duty in the Corporate Area and St. Catherine will experience a substantial boost as 25 police personnel who were on specialist course, graduated Friday and will join the traffic department.
He said special emphasis will be placed on motorists who speed, drive carelessly, PPV drivers who overload vehicles, overtake carelessly and drive on soft shoulders. He said the majority of reported accidents are due to improper overtaking.
So far this year, 278 fatal accidents have occurred, which is 34 less than the corresponding period last year. Powell said if drivers cooperate and obey the provisions of the Road Traffic Act, the calendar year should end on a positive note.
Passengers are being advised not to embark on vehicles that are already full and insist that drivers obey the rules of the road.
Conversely, motorists are to ensure that their vehicles are properly serviced, that the braking mechanism is working properly, tyres are roadworthy and that all lights are working.
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