Statement from Transport Minister JoBeth Coleby-Davis, urging greater caution on our streets

Education From ZNS Bahamas

The Hon. Jobeth Coleby-Davis, Minister of Transport and Energy (BIS Photo/Anthon Thompson)

In the last 72 hours, 3 traffic fatalities were recorded in The Bahamas. One of the recent victims was Philip Christie – a promising young craftsman apprentice of Bahamas Power and Light (BPL), who worked at the Clifton Pier Power Station. Christie represented the future our nation. He was poised to make a valuable contribution to our energy sector.

I extend my deepest sympathy to all families who have lost loved ones in traffic accidents throughout The Bahamas.Unfortunately, the number of traffic fatalities recorded so far for 2024 is 53 – an increase compared to 2023. Of the fatalities reported, most were males – with over 60% of the victims being under the age of 46.

Approximately, 77% of reported fatal traffic accidents occurred between the hours of 4:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. – with most of them occurring on Sundays and Mondays. Our nation cannot continue to lose so many of its citizens in traffic accidents.The pain on families and communities is immeasurable.

The Ministry is urging members of the public to exercise extreme caution on our streets.

Motorists are encouraged to always drive within the speed limit, wear seatbelts, and obey all traffic laws.

Do not drive a vehicle if you are under the influence of alcohol. Do not use mobile devices while driving.

Obey the speed limit in school zones and be mindful of all pedestrians, especially young children.

In short order, the Ministry and the Road Traffic Department will announce plans to observe Road Safety Month and other activities to promote safety on our streets. We invite members of corporate Bahamas to partner with the Ministry of Energy and Transport in our upcoming national road safety campaign.

While the activities will raise awareness, road safety must be practiced every day.

Slow down. Drive safely to arrive alive.