With the construction of more highways to ease congestion, the callous practice of speeding has now become a major bugbear for traffic officers.
In October last, 16,453 drivers were caught driving above the legal limit on the Mandela-Eccles Four Lane Highway. Even more troubling is that an additional 36,479 drivers were also caught without wearing a seat belt.
In an interview with Guyana Standard, Traffic Chief Dennis Stephens explained that while traffic ranks are deployed to these highways, the responsibility still stands with those behind the wheel. He noted that too often, drivers tend to lose consideration for the safety of others.
“We need to think more about other people when driving on the road. Drivers need to think more about the consequences of reckless driving and how it could impact the lives of others. It’s as simple as considering others,” Stephens said.
He further stated, “We will continue to monitor the situation and make sure people are not recklessly driving. I want people to know that safe driving can save your life and the life of someone else.”
The death toll on Guyana’s roadways has already surpassed the figures of last year. The month of September is considered the deadliest month of the year so far. Statistics indicate that 75 persons lost their lives in the same period in 2021. The figures this year have shown that 89 persons were killed in road accidents; among them five children.
Meanwhile, during the launch of Guyana Road Safety Council’s website and Magazine Monday night, Minister of Home Affairs Robeson Benn highlighted concerns about the adherence to the rules of the road, despite millions being spent on road safety awareness.
“We have to pay attention to what is a significant determinant of the use of the roadways beyond drinking and driving among other issues. There is also the culture of public transport. The way how minibus persons operate. We have to pay attention to the culture we as adults pass on to the next generation.” Minister Benn said.
This year’s Road Safety Month is observed under the theme “Driving safe to save lives”.
