THE Government has issued advice to drivers in the wake of the latest traffic fatalities - describing the total of 35 fatalities for the year as “unacceptable”.
A statement issued to the press said: “The Ministry of Transport and Aviation extends sincerest condolences to the families of the persons who lost their lives or were seriously injured in road traffic accidents which occurred in Nassau, in Freeport and the Family Islands in recent days.
“The devastation these accidents cause to families, friends, the country and the environment is immense.
“The traffic fatality count stands at 35 for the year.
“This is unacceptable.
“It is critical that each and every one of us makes a commitment to pay attention to other road users, to obey the traffic laws at all times, no matter how brief the journey, the time of the journey or the purpose of the journey.
“Holidays are usually a time of merriment and joy - however we must never relax our adherence to the rules of the road, the traffic regulations and laws.”
The ministry reminded road users of the following:
• It is never safe to drink alcohol and drive.
• It is never safe to exceed the speed limit or to drive without due care and attention to other road users or to disregard signals, road markings or signage.
• The danger of using cell phones and other hand held devices while driving cannot be emphasised enough and is strongly discouraged.
• Seatbelts should be worn at all times and children and infants should be properly secured in vehicles.
• Road users should be continuously vigilant and circumspect while on the roads - and this includes those in vehicles, cyclists, motorcyclists and pedestrians.
The statement concluded: “We must do all that we can to preserve our lives and health.
“The Bahamaian people can be assured of the commitment of the Ministry of Transport and Aviation to work tirelessly together with our partners in the Ministry of Works and Urban Development and the Royal Bahamas Police Force to ensure the safety of all our citizens and visitors alike.”
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