TODAY is the first in a series of weekly publications by the Guyana Police Force entitled ‘THE POLICE CORNER,’ which will focus on operations and developments in the Force, as well as key messages for the information of the public.

Unto Tuesday April 12, 2016, a total of 35 road fatalities from 35 accidents have been recorded in comparison to 30 fatalities from 21 accidents for the same period in 2015, an increase of 17%. Three children have died as a result of traffic accidents so far this year, compared to nine for the same period last year.

There have been increases in the other categories of traffic accidents comprising serious, minor and damage, most of which have been damage accidents and without injuries to any person.

Pedestrians have been the main category of road users affected so far in road fatalities with 10 such persons having lost their lives this year. In addition, five pedal cyclists, nine motor cyclists, seven drivers, two passengers in motor vehicles and two pillion riders also lost their lives.

Speeding continues to be the major contributory factor to fatal accidents, having been the cause of 19 of the 35 fatal accidents recorded, along with the use of alcohol.

However, other causes of accidents in general include inattentiveness by pedestrians and motorists; lack of care at intersections; following too closely behind moving vehicles; overtaking improperly; and pulling out of parked positions and swerving, heedless to traffic.

Traffic enforcement by the police has resulted in a total of 20,948 cases for this year being made against errant motorists unto Tuesday. Of this total, 7,507 cases were for speeding; 626 for driving under the influence of alcohol; 239 for using cellphones while driving and 829 for failing to wear seat belts.

While the Traffic Department has intensified its enforcement activities with special focus on speeding and driving under the influence, driving motor cycles without safety helmets and using cellphones while driving a motor vehicle, it is once more urging that all persons use the roadways in a manner that is cognisant of the five Cs – Care, Consideration, Caution, Common- sense and Courtesy.

At the same time, the Traffic Department will enhance its traffic education programme through the Road Safety Talk and other media programmes, as well as through visits to schools and bus/car parks for interactive sessions with students and motorists, respectively, and the distribution of flyers and brochures with pertinent information.

The Guyana Police Force is taking the opportunity to caution motorists who drive closely behind other vehicles on the roadways (tailgating) and which has resulted in a number of accidents. Remember to apply the principle of thinking distance and braking distance – the faster the rate of speed, there is the need to be farther away from the vehicle ahead. Motor cyclists and pillion riders are reminded to wear their safety helmets at all times.

A number of initiatives that were adopted in 2015 will continue, inclusive of the “Name and Shame” campaign in relation to persons convicted for driving under the influence of alcohol and the use of the tow truck and wheel clamps in situations where motor vehicles are parked in contravention of the laws, as the Force strives to ensure road safety.

SOME ADVICE FOR ROAD USERS

Drivers
Practise defensive driving which is simply driving to suit the prevailing conditions such as the weather, lighting condition, traffic and road. You should also be prepared to take evasive action when confronted with danger, in spite of the actions of the other road users. Be on the lookout for young children and elderly persons who are using the roads.

Passengers
Speak out when drivers are speeding or making reckless manoeuvres that could endanger your lives. There is no second chance. Often passengers do not get the opportunity to tell their tales.

Motor cyclists
Respect your life and that of others. Do not speed and always wear a safety helmet. Do not tow more than one person and ensure that the pillion rider is also wearing a safety helmet. You should be cognisant that there is not much protection for you, nor the pillion rider, should a collision occur.
Pedal cyclists
Ride on the left hand side of the road and ensure that your cycle has lights, reflectors, bell and brakes. Do not tow persons on the handle of the bicycle and always hold the steering handle when riding on the roads. Wear light-coloured clothing in the night.

Pedestrians
Practise the kerb drill, even if you are using a pedestrian crossing. Do not cross the road in the path of approaching vehicles. Walk on the right hand side of the road, and not more than two abreast. Use avenues and footpaths where provided. Wear light-coloured clothing during the hours of darkness. Always hold the hands of young children in your company.

“Be wise, stay alive, stop speeding, don’t drink and drive.”