'Be careful'

Deputy Superintendent of Police Wayne Cameron, of the Police Traffic Division, is warning motorists to be extra careful during this Yuletide season. He said, unfortunately, at this time members of the public tend to be more pre-occupied with fun activities than with their personal safety.

According to DSP Cameron, a trend has developed which shows that during the latter part of each year there is a sudden spike in the number of collisions on the road, mainly because of congestion and speeding.

"Drivers who journey from Kingston to rural areas during the holiday season tend to have accidents, because they are unfamiliar with the roads,' he explained. "So, they need to exercise extreme caution when using roads on which they do not travel regularly."

The police officer also warned motorists not to leave valuables visible in parked vehicles. "Perpetrators of crime will break into the cars and steal them, especially the laptops for which sales on the black market has become a thriving business," Cameron disclosed.

Proper road usage

He also urged pedestrians to exercise proper road usage, especially at this time of the year when the roads are congested.

"Pedestrians need to learn to use the roadways properly. Unfortunately, they tend not to walk on the sidewalks, choosing instead to journey on the roadway. That is dangerous, as we find that there are many reckless drivers out there who are rushing from one point to the other, without thinking of the consequences of their actions. Speeding is against the law!"

He also warned partygoers to refrain from drinking and driving.

"We have increased the number of policemen on the roads and we shall be conducting our breathalyser exercise, especially during the nights," the Deputy Superintendent told Automotives. "There will also be regular spot checks, together with more foot and mobile patrols."

Service vehicles

The police officer encouraged motorists to service their vehicles in readiness for all the travel that comes as a result of the increased number of events usually held this time of year.

"Make sure you have good tyres and that your braking system is functional. Make sure to park in areas where there are security guards, or proper lighting at nights. Then be sure to lock up the vehicles," he warned.

So far this year, there have been 270 road fatalities, resulting from 247 collisions. These have resulted in 52 fewer deaths than over the same period last year.

"However, the traffic division and the police are making every effort to keep the figure below 300 in total for this year. That's the target we have set and we are working hard to meet it," Cameron said.

- Laranzo Dacres

Useful tips

• No dialing or texting while driving;
  
• Always keep your car doors locked;
  
• Make sure you have enough fuel in case there is an emergency;
  
• In the event that you feel threatened while driving, stay calm and do not react aggressively. Instead, drive to a busy, safe place or the nearest police station;
  
• Always take the route you know best;
  
• Ensure your cell phone is charged;
  
• Be aware of drivers of vehicles or people behaving suspiciously;
  
• Always lock your car and close the windows, even if you will only be gone for a few minutes;
  
• When possible, lock all merchandise or packages in the trunk of your car. Load your packages before departing, not at the next destination.