22 Road Fatalities For the Year: DIPT Issues Statement

Road safety took centre stage on Sunday, 17 November, observed as Remembrance Day for Road Traffic Victims. In a statement, Saint Lucia’s Department of Infrastructure, Ports and Transport (DIPT) highlighted the pressing need for caution and safety on the roads, noting that the island has recorded 22 road fatalities this year, alongside numerous injuries. According to Lenita Joseph, the Department’s Permanent Secretary, “The statistics of collisions for this year, to date, indicate that pedestrians and passengers have been at highest risk due in large part to the increasing number of incidents involving passenger vehicles.” Speeding, as well as improper use of the roads, she stated, were among the biggest culprits causing crashes. Officials stressed that the effects of road accidents extend far beyond the moment of impact, often resulting in long-term emotional, physical, and economic devastation. In addition to victims, family members and first responders are frequently left grappling with the lasting consequences of traffic incidents. “Our emergency and health services are constantly under pressure to respond to and provide post-trauma care,” said Joseph. She added, “The economic costs associated with the high risk [of road incidents] is manifesting in increased premiums for motor vehicle insurance.” The department also pointed...