Each day a family mourns the loss of a relative whose life is cut short by reckless driving or driving under the influence of alcohol.

Despite current legislations imposed to deter motorists from driving recklessly there is a high incidence of road fatalities among Jamaicans.

Since, the start of the year there has been 142 collisions and 155 deaths on the nation’s roadways. This figure accounts for motorists, motorcyclists and pedestrians who are killed on the road ways.

Sadly, this figure is set to increase by the end of the year if motorists and motorcyclists do not change their attitude towards reckless driving.

A threat to development

Undoubtedly, the current rate of road fatalities is an issue of concern because it poses a significant challenge to the country’s promising youthful population whose lives are being cut short due to road accidents.

Some individuals who survive motor vehicle accidents are not able to earn due to injuries.

Similarly, the impacts of motor vehicle accidents place a strain on the limited resources of the country’s health care system to treat victims who become injured.

Road Safety Tips

• Obey all speed limits and signs.
• Always be attentive once around a steering wheel
• Do not drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Always wear your seatbelts.
• Do a simple check before driving a car.
• When you get into the car, adjust all mirrors and seats before placing the key in the ignition.
• Always drive with your headlights on, a car is visible for nearly four times the distance with it’s headlights on.
• Always use your turn signals.
• Pay attention to all signs
• Leave home early to give yourself enough time to arrive at your destination.