IN recent times, our beautiful nation has been grappling with a growing concern that affects us all – the alarming increase in road accidents.
These incidents have not only left countless families shattered, but have also cast a somber shadow over the overall safety of our roadways. The time has come for us to come together as a community and address this issue head-on, making our roads safer for everyone.

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali has aptly identified two major culprits behind these accidents: Drunk driving and speeding.
These reckless behaviours have cost us dearly in terms of lives lost and the emotional trauma endured by survivors and their families. However, it’s heartening to see that the government is taking active steps to curb these issues.
One of the commendable measures taken by the government is the stricter enforcement of laws against drunk driving. This includes increased police patrols and roadside checkpoints, coupled with harsher penalties for offenders.

We must applaud these efforts, as they send a clear message that such irresponsible behaviour will not be tolerated. However, let us also remember that our individual choices matter immensely. Before we get behind the wheel after consuming alcohol, we should think not only about the legal consequences but also about the potential harm we could cause to ourselves and others.
Speeding, another major factor contributing to accidents, has not been overlooked either. Various initiatives, such as the promotion of safe driving campaigns, are being put in place to address this issue.

While these measures are important, we, as responsible citizens, must also play our part. Adhering to speed limits, respecting road signs, and maintaining our vehicles in proper working condition are simple yet effective ways we can contribute to road safety.
However, it’s crucial to understand that addressing the surge in road accidents requires a multi-stakeholder effort. Government actions alone cannot solve this problem entirely. We need a collective commitment from all sectors of society, including law enforcement, the judiciary, healthcare providers, insurance companies, and, most importantly, us – the everyday road users.

To succeed in our mission to make Guyana’s roads safer, we must: Understand the consequences of reckless driving and the importance of adhering to traffic laws; be responsible drivers, setting a positive precedent for others to follow; co-operate with traffic police and report dangerous drivers when necessary; engage with local authorities and advocate for better road infrastructure, signage, and public transportation options; organise or participate in awareness campaigns and events to promote road safety, and instill safe driving habits in our children and peers.

We have the power to change the narrative, to reduce the pain and suffering caused by road accidents, and to make our roads safer for all. Let’s unite as a nation, standing shoulder to shoulder, to confront this issue head-on.
Remember, our choices on the road impact not only our lives but also the lives of our fellow Guyanese. By working together, we can turn the tide and ensure safer journeys for everyone. Let’s make the pledge today to prioritise road safety and transform our nation into a model of responsible driving.