Commissioner of Police Dr Kevin Blake says the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) will be intensifying strategies to prevent road fatalities.

According to the Road Safety Unit in the Island Traffic Authority, 118 lives were lost on the nation’s roadways due to road crashes as of today, April 9. This represents a 4.0 per cent decline in road fatalities when compared to the same period last year.

“The recent surge in fatal road crashes in the past month has raised significant concerns. This disturbing trend underscores the urgent need for JCF to adapt and enhance our strategies to prevent further loss of life. In response, the JCF is committed to focusing on addressing moving violations as a core component of our strategic response. Enforcement of traffic laws is about saving lives, not just about issuing tickets. Our objective is to create a safer environment for all road users by vigorously targeting behaviours that contributes to road accidents,” Blake said.

The behaviours he noted include speeding, impaired driving, and failing to use seat belts and wear helmets.

“Our approach will be multifaceted, combining strict enforcement with public education campaigns on our platforms to foster a culture of road safety. We will work closely with our partners and other stakeholders to amplify our efforts,” he added.

The commissioner of police was speaking at the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s first quarterly press briefing for 2024 on Tuesday, April 9.