Letter of the Day | Alarming toll of road fatalities: A call to action

THE EDITOR, Madam:

The tragic loss of lives on our roads continues to weigh heavily on our nation. The heartbreaking accident on Monday, December 2, which claimed the lives of two Lennon High School students and left several others injured, serves as a stark reminder of the urgency required to address road safety. Less than a month ago, another high school student lost her life in a fatal accident in Trelawny, deepening the sorrow felt by families, schools, and communities.

As of December 2, 340 lives were lost to road accidents this year – a staggering toll, though marginally lower than the 393 deaths recorded in the same period last year. These figures are not just numbers; they represent futures cut short, families torn apart, and communities left in mourning. Among the most vulnerable are pedestrians, motorcyclists, and children, who continue to bear the brunt of these tragedies.

Poor road conditions, including potholes, contribute significantly to these fatal crashes. Just this past weekend, a 72-year-old woman lost her life in St Ann after the driver of the car she was in swerved to avoid potholes and collided with another vehicle. This marks the third pothole-related death in two months. Such preventable tragedies highlight the urgent need for infrastructural improvements and better road maintenance.

Road safety is an issue deeply rooted in my family’s history. Over 30 years ago, my father, Professor Sir John Golding, conducted pivotal research on the devastating effects of road crashes on Jamaicans. His findings led to the recognition of road safety as a national priority and the formation of the National Road Safety Council in 1993. Under his leadership, the council advocated for the introduction of safe driving laws, including the mandatory wearing of seat belts.

I wish to honour his legacy by imploring all Jamaicans to renew our commitment to safer roads. The causes of road crashes –speeding, reckless driving, and poor infrastructure – require decisive and immediate action. Properly maintained roads, stricter enforcement of traffic laws, and public education campaigns are essential steps to prevent further loss of life and crippling injuries.

As we enter the holiday season – a time of family, joy, and togetherness – let us resolve to prioritise road safety. The government, law enforcement and every Jamaican must play their part in creating a culture of care and responsibility on our roads. We cannot afford to lose more lives to avoidable tragedies.

Let us remember the lives lost, support the grieving families, and work together to make our roads safer for all Jamaicans.

MARK J. GOLDING

Leader of the Opposition