This years’ theme is “Changing minds, Changing behaviours” and as stated by our mission statement – “to educate the public with effective tools to reduce collisions and road fatalities” and vision statement “to create a safer road culture that promotes positive driving and riding practices creating smarter road users and saving lives” – that is what we are aiming to do.
To create a culture of safety first and foremost. Road safety requires each one of use making changes that will have a positive effect on our roads.
Looking back at some road safety stats from 2023 – there were a total of 1068 collisions, 13 road fatalities and 107 serious injuries. The 3 highest age demographics for collisions – 60 and over 346, 31 – 40 336, 41 – 50 286. The leading cause of determined collisions – inattention, and there 54 alcohol related collisions.
In an effort to reduce these statistics, the BRSC is looking at 1) a mature driver’s course for any driver over the age of 21, as refresher course to brush up on their driving. 2) a prolific offender’s course – to reduce the number of repeat offenders by educating and re-enforcing proper driving standards. 3) promote a rental livery association to raise the standard of livery transport.
The BRSC must lead the charge to raise the standard of driving in Bermuda and these are steps that must be taken to help achieve it.
Enforcement also plays a big role in changing and deterring behaviour. The BPS does a tireless job, special mention to the Roads Policing Unit who work closely with the BRSC, in catching offenders and bringing them before the courts. We will continue to support them in their efforts as they are the front line of road safety.
The BPS will be encouraged to know that they will soon have further support and assistance from the soon to be installed CCTV network. While they cannot be everywhere at all times, the CCTV will be an added resource in their efforts for safer roads.
In light of the stats from 2023 the BRSC marches on steadily to change minds and behaviours.
This week is RSW and today is Tuesday – “Travel Safely”. Traveling safely begins when you prepare to get in or on a vehicle, clear your mind and focus. Limit distractions while you are driving. Obey all road signs and laws and travel at the speed limit.
Each day this week has its own theme to promote road safety and we ask each of you to support them.
Education is the first step to changing behaviours and the BRSC starts as early as preschool doing presentation on road safety. We encourage all school levels to be involved in road safety. We are proud of the JRSC who conduct initiatives to promote road safety among their peers. The JRSC members are our ambassadors for road safety. Let’s commend these members for being leaders among their peers.
In 2024 let’s pledge to break bad habits and behaviours. We must change our minds to think of safety first, being considerate of others and adhering to all road rules and signs.
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