Saint Lucia’s Department of Infrastructure, Ports & Transport (DIPT) has released a public service message urging road users to be safety conscious.
The new road safety advisory comes amid an alarming increase in road incidents, resulting in over 1000 individuals receiving emergency Saint Lucia Fire Service (SLFS) transportation to medical facilities this year after sustaining various injuries.
Road accidents have so far resulted in twenty-three deaths.
The DIPT reminded all road users to be safe, considerate, and mindful, especially during the festive season.
“All lives are precious and irreplaceable. Safe driving is not just a practice but a responsibility that can protect lives and prevent devastating consequences. A simple act of kindness and consideration can make a difference in someone’s life,” the Department stated.
A recorded message from the Department featured remarks from Permanent Secretary Lenita Joseph, Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Charlotte Thomas, and Kevin Jn Baptiste of the National Council of and For Persons with Disabilities (NCPD).
Joseph urged the public not to let road traffic collisions or injuries kill the joy and goodwill of the season.
“You can have a merry Christmas, but use the roads wisewly,” the Permanent Secretary stated.
For her part, ASP Thomas appealed for a safe holiday season.
“Speeding, ignoring traffic laws and reckless driving could land you in court or even worse, cause a life-altering accident,” the senior police officer warned.
At the same time, the NCPD’s Kevin Jn Baptiste urged motorists to look out for children, persons with mobility impairment, and older individuals.
Christmas is often one of the busiest holidays, with many demands, such as shopping and travelling to see family and friends.
An uptick in road traffic, celebratory gatherings, and a propensity for people to overindulge, especially when consuming alcohol, create the conditions for road incidents to occur.
However, the road incidents have continued despite repeated official road safety appeals.
