Summer slowdown

Sheldon Williams, Gleaner Writer

Executive director of the National Road Safety Council (NRSC), Paula Fletcher, has contradicted a popular misconception that there is an increase in motor vehicle crashes, and hence road fatalities, during summer.

"When school is out we tend to have less traffic, and less traffic on the roads reduces crashes that can lead to injury or death. However, last year it just didn't work out that way.

"But traditionally, the less amount of travel on the roadways gives us a little break, as it is not as high as other times. Traditionally, we would have an easier time in the summer months," Fletcher added.

Recent data from the NRSC shows that 29 persons died in June of this year, at the start of summer, compared with 27 in 2013 and 18 the year before. Fifteen fatalities have been recorded up to July 24 this year, compared to the same number over the entire month last year and 16 the year before.

So far this year, the June fatality figure has been exceeded by March, when there were 37 road deaths. All the months have seen fatalities in the 20s, with 26 recorded in April, 25 in February, 23 in May and 22 in January.

The perception of a road-death spike in summer may be fuelled by the prevalence of parties and associated careless driving, influenced at times by alcohol. However, Fletcher speaks about the daytime, rather than night.

"Studies have not been done but you can move through the roads earlier in the morning. It is something you see anecdotally," Fletcher remarked.

There have been 172 traffic fatalities to July 22 this year, compared to 156 at the same point last year and 141 the year before.