(Trinidad Guardian) – Road traffic deaths have increased by 25% in 2022, with 30 lives lost on the nation’s roads, according to data from the Traffic and Highway Patrol Branch Roadway Surveillance Unit.
The alarming statistic was revealed in an official statement from the Police Service, which noted that for the same period in 2021, there had been only 24 road fatalities recorded.
In addition, the Police Service is warning that there will be increased patrols for the Easter holiday period and is urging motorists to take greater care on the roads, as two people lost their lives and others were seriously injured in road accidents, overnight.
“The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service extends sincerest condolences to the victims’ families and urges motorists to exercise greater care and caution when driving,” the TTPS release said.
Senior Superintendent Wayne Mystar of the Traffic and Highway Patrol Branch, warns police officers will be out in full force during the Easter holiday period, with special emphasis on the offence of Driving Under the Influence (DUI) of alcohol and speed enforcement.
“Drivers will face a ‘zero tolerance’ approach this week into the holiday weekend,” he warned. “We have seen an increase in highway fatalities in 2022 and we want everyone to enjoy their holiday, but it cannot be at the expense of their or other persons’ safety.”
“Let’s do the right thing and obey road traffic laws,” he added.
Meanwhile, TTPS Road Safety Project Coordinator, Sergeant Brent Batson, referenced a graphic video clip circulating on social media of a recent road fatality.
“I don’t condone such videos,” he said. “The immeasurable trauma which the female experienced at the scene of the collision is exactly what we work so hard to prevent.”
He added: “We continue to appeal to drivers to do their part to help save lives and keep families together.”
