STATE MINISTER C. V. HOPE STRACHAN CALLS FOR GREATER ROAD SAFETY AWARENESS FROM THE MOTORING PUBLIC

MINISTRY OF TRANSPORT AND AVIATION

Yesterday we experienced another tragic incident for a Bahamian family, the Ministry of Transport and Aviation and the wider Bahamian public; the death of a toddler on the streets of Eleuthera. This marks the 12th fatality this year for our country.

It is another traffic accident with the most significant and dire consequences. The Ministry of Transport and Aviation and the Road Traffic Department send heartfelt condolences and support to the families of all those who have died on the streets recently and in the past. We urge the travelling public to ensure that safety protocols are adhered to at all times. Road Traffic Laws and Regulations are not only punitive but are instituted to secure the preservation of life and the personal wellbeing of road users.

It is therefore important that drivers and road users continually familiarize themselves with the regulations and pay attention to safety regulations which save lives. Some simple safety tips are as follows:

1) Always pay attention to the road when driving. If there is a need to carry out any other activity while on the road, safely guide your vehicle off the road.

2) The use of all phones and other hand held devices while driving should be avoided.

3) Buckle up and have passengers do so. Children in particular should always be secured in safety seats tailor made for their safety and security. This is not an option. This is the Law.

4) Obey Road Safety signs, speed limits, and always drive with consideration for the safety of other road users.

5) Ensure that at all times your vehicle is in proper working condition with all lights and signals fully functional.

6) Pedestrians should always be cognizant of their particular vulnerabilities when up against motorized vehicles. Likewise, motorized vehicles should always show deference to pedestrians.

The National Road Safety Committee is presently active and engaged. All stakeholders are represented and we will be launching our safety initiatives in a matter of days.

There are many more simple driving initiatives which help to save lives. Let us all commit ourselves to being vigilant while driving and walking the streets of our Islands.

It is important that we forge a partnership to keep our streets and all road users safe and secure as we move forward.