Basseterre, St. Kitts – The Interministerial Sustainable Road Safety Project (SRSP) Committee has advised the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis to implement four critical and urgent measures aimed at reducing the alarming number of fatal motor vehicle collisions across the island.
After an in-depth analysis of traffic accident data, the SRSP Committee has identified the following immediate actions:
Construction of Speed Bumps in High-Risk Areas
Speed bumps should be strategically constructed in areas with frequent high-speed collisions to deter reckless driving and reduce vehicle speeds.
Amendment of Legislation for Automatic Ticketing Systems
New legislation should be proposed to enable the installation of high-tech automatic ticketing systems on roads notorious for speeding and at traffic lights to penalize drivers who run red lights.
Stiffer Penalties for Speeding and Dangerous Driving Violations
The Committee recommends amending traffic laws to increase penalties for speeding, dangerous driving, and related offences. This should include provisions for demerit point deductions for traffic violations and the suspension of driver’s licenses for severe or repeat violations.
Enhanced Road Markings and Signage at Roundabouts
To improve navigation and safety, roundabouts throughout St. Kitts should receive increased road markings and upgraded signage to guide drivers effectively and prevent accidents.
These urgent measures are part of the Committee’s broader strategy to improve road safety across the Federation.
The mission of the Sustainable Road Safety Project is to enhance road safety in St. Kitts and Nevis through comprehensive data analysis, public consultation, and the implementation of sustainable measures aimed at reducing traffic accidents and fatalities to zero by 2030. The vision is to create a nation where road safety is paramount, traffic laws are respected, and infrastructure supports safe and efficient travel for all road users.
The SRSP Committee strongly urges all motorists and road users to abide by traffic laws, including speed limits, and to exercise caution while driving. Drivers are reminded not to operate vehicles under the influence of alcohol or drugs and to remain vigilant to protect their own lives and the lives of others. The general public is also reminded that every child under three feet in height must be secured in an appropriate child seat in the rear seat of the vehicle.
The SRSP Committee extends its deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of all individuals who have tragically lost their lives in road accidents in recent years. These losses are profound and drive our unwavering commitment to making our roads safer for everyone.
For further information or to share road safety concerns and suggestions, the public is encouraged to contact the SRSP Committee at roadsafety@gov.kn. Together, we can make our roads safer and protect lives.