There has been a 20 per cent increase in the number of road fatalities so far this year.

A total of 72 persons have died in motor vehicle crashes since the start of the year, according to the Road Safety Unit (RSU) in the Ministry of Transport. The increase is relative to the corresponding period in 2018 when 60 persons died.

Consequent to the increase, the RSU is renewing its call for motorists to desist from the practice of speeding on the roads. It is also advising motorists to keep left while driving and to avoid overtaking around corners.

“The unit is reiterating the call for motorists to wear their seatbelts, both drivers and passengers; helmets for motorcyclist and pillion passengers, and pedestrians to use the road with caution,” Kenute Hare, director of the RSU said.

The report revealed that among the deaths were 14 drivers of private motor vehicles, 16 pedestrians and 12 private motor vehicle passengers.

Male drivers accounted for 94 per cent of the road fatalities since January 1.

The RSU also revealed that Westmoreland has the most dangerous roads, with 10 fatalities.

A total of 389 persons were killed in motor vehicle crashes last year, the highest number in 15 years. In 2003, Jamaica recorded 391 in road fatalities.

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