SKN: PM Terrance Drew appeals for road safety as St Kitts and Nevis sees more accidents

By Rumi Samuel Published on December 12, 2024

St. Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew called on citizens to prioritize road safety and act responsibly toward one another. With the Christmas season and Carnival approaching, he urged everyone to drive carefully and help ensure a joyful and safe holiday period for all.

The Prime Minister’s appeal came on the same day as a tragic road accident on the Island Main Road in the New Guinea area near Brimstone Hill, which claimed the lives of five individuals. The collision involved a bus and a private vehicle.

According to reports, several people were evacuated from the bus, and at least one person was rescued from the sea. The death toll may rise as investigations continue. The injured were transported to the hospital for urgent medical care.

This followed another fatal accident on December 6, in which two individuals died instantly, and four others were injured in a crash on the FT Williams Highway in Basseterre late at night.

Speaking outside the J. N. France General Hospital, PM Drew, who is also a medical doctor known as “Caring Dr. Drew,” reflected on Wednesday’s tragedy while emphasizing the importance of safe and responsible road usage.

“For the past few days, we have seen serious accidents which have claimed the lives of our beloved citizens. The police have put out information indicating to drive with due care and to be very mindful. I want to take this opportunity as we enter into the festive season to appeal to you, our people, and our motorists that while you enjoy yourself, you should make sure that you drive with due care and attention.”

PM asks people to avoid drunk driving

He urged citizens to avoid driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, emphasizing that every life is valuable. He called on the community to come together to support families and communities grieving the loss of loved ones due to recent accidents. Offering his condolences, he encouraged everyone to prioritize safety while enjoying the Christmas season.

The Citizen Security Secretariat (CSS) of St. Kitts and Nevis also expressed concern over the recent spate of traffic accidents resulting in multiple fatalities and serious injuries. It urged all road users to exercise the highest level of caution and responsibility, particularly as traffic increases during the Sugar Mas and Christmas celebrations.

“Road safety is a shared responsibility, and we all have a part to play in ensuring that our roads are safe for everyone. We must remain vigilant and make smart, conscious decisions while driving,” Eartha Carey, coordinator of the CSS, said. “The recent fatalities are a tragic reminder of how quickly lives can be lost on the roads. We cannot afford to take safety for granted, particularly during the busy holiday season.”

The Secretariat encouraged the public to take proactive steps to reduce the risk of road accidents by refraining from driving under the influence of alcohol or other substances; adhering to speed limits and adjusting speed to suit road conditions, particularly in busy or unfamiliar areas; avoiding distractions such as mobile phone use while driving; ensuring adequate rest to prevent fatigue from impairing driving abilities; and consistently wearing seatbelts while driving or travelling.

The CSS emphasized that road safety is a shared responsibility and called on everyone to play their part in ensuring safer roads for all.

Rumi Samuel

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