There have been 56 road fatalities from 45 accidents, between January and June this year the Guyana Police Force (GPF) said yesterday, adding that for the same period in last year there were 57 fatalities from 52 accidents.
According to a police press release, there was also a decrease in all other categories of road accidents, including serious, minor and damage.
The release said 8 motorcyclists, 5 pedal cyclists, 8 drivers, 16 persons travelling in motor vehicles, 17 pedestrians, 1 pillion rider and 1 person being towed on a bicycle lost their lives. “Speeding has been the major contributory factor to fatal accidents, having been cause of 22 of the 45 fatal accidents…,” the statement said.
So far, the police said, there have been 2 road fatalities for this month.
The GPF used the opportunity to further caution motorists who drive closely behind other motor vehicles on the roadways (tailgating) which has resulted in a number of accidents. “Remember to apply the principle of thinking distance and braking distance – the faster the rate of speed, there is the need to be further away from the vehicle ahead,” said the release. It also urged all motor cyclists and pillion riders to wear their safety helmets at all times.
Meanwhile, it was announced that the GPF will be conducting Medical Outreach Pro-grammes in the Albouystown, George-town and Bath West Coast Berbice during this month as it celebrates its 176th anniversary.
