According to an official from the traffic division of the Royal Bahamas Police Force, there have been about 1,500 traffic accidents in New Providence for the year.
That figure, the official said, only includes accidents that the traffic department has dealt with personally, and although it does represent the majority of traffic accidents, there are still some cases that do not make it as far as the department.
Local police stations sometimes record traffic accidents that occur in their areas, and most times in those cases, the traffic division does not record these accidents.
Two days ago the double traffic fatality which took the lives of two Long Island sisters, Santura and Brigetta Adderley, brought the total traffic accident death toll up to 13 for the year, prompting traffic officials to caution motorists to be extra careful during the rainy period.
One irate driver complained of the apparent nonchalance and total disregard for safety some drivers demonstrate on – the road, saying: “These people are getting more and more reckless.”
“They are not only potentially putting their lives in danger but also the persons driving next to them.” the motorist said. “Everyone seems to be in a rush. If you have to be some place for a certain time, then you must make allowances and leave on time.”
Another motorist suggested that traffic officials implement a continuing education programme for drivers who break the laws of the road.
“Road Traffic should mandate that these persons attend a driving programme that stresses safe driving habits, for example: what precautions to take when driving on slippery or wet road.”
He added that there should be some penalties for persons who are charged with traffic offences.
The motorist suggested that a community service or driver’s education programme is ideal for this type of offence – because offenders are given the opportunity to learn from their mistakes.
By KRYSTEL ROLLE, The Tribune
