Speak out! Don’t wait until an accident occurs!

IN light of the minibus crash Wednesday evening on the Linden/Soesdyke highway in which two Lindeners died and several persons were injured, Traffic Chief Hugh Denhert yesterday renewed his call for the travelling public and road users in general to report all ‘anti-social’ activities to the police Traffic Department so the necessary course of action can be taken.

He said, “Do not wait until there is a fatal accident then to report that the vehicle, be it a minibus or car, was speeding, when the driver lost control and it toppled several times in which it claimed the lives of occupants. Speak

out – it is only then the police can act to curb all lawlessness on our roadways.”

The Superintendent urged all road users, especially those utilising public transport, to voice their concern when travelling if the driver of the minibus is speeding. One must not be afraid to speak-up or exit the bus and make note of the time it occurred and the licence number of the vehicle and report it to the police.

He also referred to instances in which passengers are scared to speak out because the drivers and conductors of minibuses berate them but that should not be since a service is being provided.

Denhert told this publication that the police continue to advocate for all to take care and observe the five ‘Cs’ for better use of the roadways and to “be your brother’s keeper since we all use the roads.”

The Traffic Chief said, “We want to take action and we encourage all road users to report all activities of ‘anti-social’ behaviour displayed by drivers, come forward and assist us to crack down on all these dangerous activities prevailing on our roadways.”

Traffic Headquarters, Eve Leary, Georgetown, reported that they have recorded 59 road accidents in which 64 persons were killed, including nine children, for this year and for the corresponding period last year, they had 56 road accidents which claimed the lives of 59 persons, including six children.

Meanwhile, police are investigating a fatal accident that occurred at about 17:45 hours on July 16, 2014, on Kairuni Public Road, Soesdyke/Linden Highway, and which resulted in the death of Roger Hutson, 29, of Maraballi Street, Mackenzie, Linden; and Kathleen Marks, 36, of Amelia’s Ward, Linden.
Investigations have revealed that minibus BSS 4774 was proceeding along the Kairuni Public Road when the vehicle suffered a puncture, causing the driver to lose control of the vehicle which toppled several times.
The driver, Roger Hutson, and passengers received injuries and were taken to the Mackenzie Hospital where the driver was pronounced dead on arrival. Passenger, Kathleen Marks died while receiving medical attention. Investigations are in progress.

(By Michel Outridge)