Belmopan. October 11, 2022. 3:25 p.m.
The Second Road Safety Project Executing Unit (SRSPEU) in the Ministry of Economic Development expresses concern about the numerous traffic incidents that have occurred over the past weeks.
While not all causes of these incidents were conclusively determined, the SRSPEU reminds all road users that speeding and distracted driving are the leading causes of traffic incidents in Belize. It is imperative that drivers maintain their speed within the legal limit and take all precautions to maintain a safe distance behind the vehicles ahead of them, which, if properly maintained, allows sufficient time for an adequate response if necessary. It is also imperative that drivers focus on the road and are not distracted by passengers, cell phones, pets, music, and other disturbances.
In times of inclement weather, drivers should use their headlights to be seen by other road users and should slow down to maintain complete control of their vehicles, particularly in the event of the risk of hydroplaning on wet roads. If visibility is poor, drivers should pull well off the side of the road and turn on hazard lights until visibility improves.
Based on statistics gathered, there were 234 traffic incidents for the period of January to September of 2022; with 63 fatalities and 94 serious injuries. The country’s goal for road safety, in alignment with the United Nation’s General Assembly Global Goal for the Decade of Action for Road Safety 2021 to 2030, is to reduce road traffic deaths by 50% by 2030. Based on the current trend, this might be a more challenging goal than anticipated, despite the Government of Belize’s efforts and investments. Notwithstanding this, the government is determined to meet its objective.
The Ministry of Economic Development and the Second Road Safety Project Executing Unit call on all road users to comply with the rules and regulations set forth in the Traffic Act to ensure the safe use of roads.
Ends
For more information, please contact:
Mr. Zane Castillo
Project Manager
Second Road Safety Project
Projectmanager.rsp@med.gov.bz
