After deadly 2023, road fatalities on the decline

The year 2023 was one of the most grievous years for road fatalities, but statistics show that there has been some improvement in 2024.

Even so, authorities are urging motorists to desist from the usual ‘culprits’ that claim lives: speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol, and driving while being distracted.

According to Research Officer at the Ministry of Home Affairs Michelle Baptiste, comparative statistics for the period January 1 to November 2, 2023 versus 2024 show that the total lives lost declined by 30 per cent – down to 102 in 2024 from 145 in 2023.

At the launch of Road Safety Month 2024, at Leonora Track and Field, West Coast Demerara, she shared additional comparative statistics for the period January 1 to November 2, 2023 versus 2024.

Male fatalities decreased by 25 per cent (down to 91 in 2024 from 122 in 2023); there was a 49 per cent decrease in lives lost for the 25-42 age category (down to 45 in 2024 from 55 in 2023).

According to her, the leading road users killed in fatal accidents were motorcyclists for both years, which was followed by pedestrians.

“There was a 15 per cent (down to 41 in 2024 from 48 in 2023) decrease in lives lost for motorcyclists and 30 per cent (down to 26 in 2024 from 37 in 2023) decrease in lives lost for pedestrians.

Private cars were the highest category of vehicles involved in fatal accidents for both periods. However, this category declined by 18 per cent (down to 45 in 2024 from 55 in 2023).

The majority of fatal accidents were recorded on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays for 2024, and the peak period is 18:01 hours though midnight.

“Why are we failing? One reason has to do with the current culture of our society. Persons drinking under the influence of alcohol and drugs and think it is ok to do so,” Baptiste said.

Added to the problem is that “most motorcyclists” do not wear their helmets, and persons ride and drive aggressively.