Mon, 2022-10-03

Traffic collisions in the 3rd quarter of 2022 were significantly reduced, when compared with 3rd quarter figures for the three years prior.

Between July and September of this year, there were 264 road traffic collisions. For the corresponding three months of 2021, there were 352 such incidents. In 2020 the third quarter figure stood at 315 and in 2019, 384.

Robert Cardwell – Chief Inspector, Tactical Support Division, said: “This represents a marked reduction in road traffic collisions. Reflecting on 2nd quarter collision numbers, for 2022 they edged up slightly over 2021.  However, for the first quarter of 2022, the number was lower than the same period in 2021 as was the 4th quarter of 2021, when compared with the years 2020 and 2019.”

The Chief Inspector added: “We attribute collision reductions to the hard work of our officers in progressing Operation Vega.  That notwithstanding, we still find speeding offences to be the most prominent offence reported.  We also attribute many of these collisions to speed.  We continue to encourage Bermuda to slow down on the roads. Unfortunately, Impaired driving also remains prevalent on our roads. In the 1st quarter of 2022, twenty-eight drivers were arrested for impaired.   In the 2nd quarter fifty-one drivers were arrested and in the 3rd quarter 70.  That is 149 impaired drivers arrested in 2022 so far.”

When impaired your, ability to accurately perceive what is going on around you is severely hindered, your reaction time slows down, your mental capacity is affected, your coordination is thrown off and motor skills become diminished thus increasing your chances of being involved in a collision.

Mr Cardwell added: “Drivers should also consider that operating a vehicle whilst impaired, threatens not only their lives but also to the lives of any passengers in their vehicle. Not to mention, the lives of other road users.”

Appearing before the courts, anyone charged with impaired driving can expect a fine of one thousand dollars as well as to be banned from operating a vehicle for 18 months.

In order to help prevent road traffic collisions, the public is reminded:

1.       Do not operate a vehicle whilst impaired by alcohol or drugs.

2.       Avoid using mobile devices when operating a vehicle.

3.       When operating a vehicle, look well ahead for hazards, brake lights and turn signals.

4.       Always maintain sufficient distance between you and the vehicle in front so that you have   enough room to stop safely.

5.       Observe the speed limit.

6.       Obey road traffic signs.

7.       Ensure your vehicle is in good working order.

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