Road deaths surpass 50...motorcyclists account for 18

Nearly 60 persons have died on the nation’s roadways since the start of the year.

According to the Road Safety Unit in the Ministry of Transport, 57 persons have died in motor vehicle crashes since January 1.

There were 33 road deaths in January and 24 so far this month.

The 57 deaths represent a four per cent increase or eleven more than the 46 road deaths recorded over the corresponding period last year.

A total of 389 persons were killed in motor vehicle crashes last year, the highest number in 15 years.

Jamaica recorded 391 road fatalities in 2003.

The Road Safety Unit revealed, in its latest report, that 18 motorcyclists have died in crashes since the start of the year, ten or 125 per cent more when compared with the eight deaths recorded for the similar period last year.

The report also revealed that ten private motor vehicle drivers and eleven private motor vehicle passengers have died on the roadways so far this year, representing increases of 43 per cent and 38 per cent respectively when compared to the corresponding period last year.

According to the report, Westmoreland leads all parishes with eight road deaths.

Seven road fatalities have been recorded in Kingston and St Andrew.

No road deaths have been recorded in the St Andrew Central and St Andrew North police divisions as well as in Portland.

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