By Deslyn A Joseph
A police officer is expressing renewed concern regarding road safety following a surge of traffic incidents over the weekend.
Corporal Brendan Sutherland reported that the police responded to 23 vehicular collisions between Friday and Sunday, a high figure that has prompted a fresh appeal for motorists to exercise extreme caution while operating vehicles.
While the total number of accidents remains within the range of past weekend statistics, Corporal Sutherland underscored the severity of the situation by highlighting two particular crashes that occurred on Saturday night.
“The first incident took place on Old Parham Road, near the Antigua Grammar School, resulting in two hospitalizations, one of which involved serious injuries. Later that same night, a second collision occurred on Factory Road, in the vicinity of the cemetery across from the XPZ [Supermarket]. That incident also resulted in two individuals being hospitalized, though their conditions were reported as not critical,” he explained.
According to Corporal Sutherland, initial assessments point to excessive speed as the primary factor in the accidents. He noted that the extent of the damage sustained by the vehicles involved is inconsistent with the designated speed limits in those areas. Specifically, the Corporal pointed out that the roads in question are marked with signs that advise drivers that the speed limit is 20 miles per-hour. He asserted that if motorists were adhering to these legal restrictions, the catastrophic loss of control — which in some cases caused vehicles to flip onto their sides — would not occur.
The high volume of accidents has led the police to question the effectiveness of current public safety messaging. Corporal Sutherland emphasized that the regular traffic reports and driving tips issued by the police are intended to help citizens reach their destinations safely. He expressed frustration that despite these repeated warnings, many drivers continue to disregard caution and speed limits.
The Traffic Department is therefore urging the public to take these safety advisories seriously in order to prevent further injury and damage on the nation’s roadways.