There was a 28% reduction in road deaths last year when compared to 2020 but vulnerable road users still account for more than half of the number of accident victims across Guyana, according to Minister of Public Works (MoPW) Juan Edghill, who says citizens continue to die at an “alarming” rate.
In 2020, 139 persons were killed in fatal accidents but only 99 in 2021, according to statistics released by Edghill’s ministry on Friday.
“What is very notable is that the vulnerable class of road users (pedal cyclists, motor cyclists and pedestrians) accounted for 67.7% of the total deaths in 2021 [while] in 2020 they accounted for 79.9% of the total deaths,” said Edghill, who voiced concern that some persons continue to use the roads in “a reckless and uncaring manner.
In 2021, Edghill said, pedal and motorcyclists accounted for 37.4% of road deaths, compared to 56.1% in 2020.
From January to March of this year, 15 persons have already been killed in a total of 12 accidents. Among the victims were three motorcyclists, two cyclists and two pedestrians. For the same period in 2021, 20 persons were killed in 19 road traffic accidents, including eight motorcyclists, four pedestrians and two cyclists.
Meanwhile, 362 serious accidents that resulted in the injuring of 397 persons were recorded last year while 329 occurred in 2020 with 356 injured. This represents an 11.5% and 10% increase in serious accidents and injuries when compared to 2020.
“As a result of the above mentioned, I appeal to all our pedal and motor cyclists and their pillion riders to use helmets. Too many Guyanese are riding around without helmets. I urge pedestrians to exercise caution when crossing our roads, and with the advent of four lane roads, consideration should be given that it will take more time to cross. Proper judgment is required,” Edghill said.
He also urged vehicle users to ensure that they comply with seatbelt regulations and he made an appeal to parents, guardians and teachers to adopt and promote road safety education to avoid accidents.
“No life should be lost as a result of carelessness or recklessness,” added Edghill.
Edghill said that as the Minister of Public Works, he will examine legislation to ensure stricter controls, including training/re-training of drivers/riders, higher fines or stiffer penalties and a studied approach for the introduction of a demerit system.
“I call upon all Guyanese as we build new super highways, improve and rehabilitate community roads, expand our Hinterland Road Networks and provide alternative routes for easy access, reducing congestion and cutting travel time that we observe the Five C’s: Care, Courtesy, Caution, Consideration and Common sense,” he added.
