OCTOBER 4, 2010 | BY KAIETEUR NEWS
NEW AMSTERDAM, BERBICE – A senior official of the Guyana Police Force said that all systems are being put in place to reduce deaths on the roadways in Berbice. As a result of this, so far 2010 recorded fewer road fatalities when compared to the corresponding period in 2009.
Last year, 18 persons died in road accidents in Division ‘B’ between January and October. This year that number stands at 13. The thoroughfares in East Berbice/Corentyne alone account for 10 this year.
The last fatality was on August 27th when 18-year old pedestrian Malika Matherson of 137 South Better Hope, East Coast of Demerara was struck from behind by a vehicle on the Number Twenty-nine Public Road. The driver, Charles Ferreira of Fort Wellington was refused bail by Magistrate Adele Nagamootoo on August 31st at the New Amsterdam Magistrates’ Court.
Rigid enforcement campaigns along with frequent vehicular and foot patrols were listed as the main reasons lawlessness on the roadways is being controlled. Though statistics were not readily available, the official indicated that several drivers were placed before the courts for offenses including speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol and other breaches.
At least four drivers’ licenses have been suspended so far this year. The official explained that for first and second time, persons driving under the influence get a warning from the Magistrate, along with the normal fine, but the third time is up to the discretion of the Magistrate to suspend the license.
At least 15 vehicles are impounded on a daily basis for offenses ranging from uninsured, uncertified vehicles, and breach of insurance. The official noted that lectures, on the use of the roadway, to school children form part of another approach.
Constant exercises are staged to target cyclists riding without lights, bells and brakes. He called on commuters not to remain silent as drivers breach the laws of the roadway. Pedestrians are reminded not to wear dark clothing during the hours of darkness. He acknowledged that there are drivers who operate for a gain and as such have a target to meet within a stipulated time.
This, along with the fact that some passengers are always in a hurry and call for fast driving, contributes to speeding in almost all the accidents. This year there were at least two fatal accidents where cows were blamed.
But in the first one, which was in East Canje, police investigators never saw any animal when they arrived on the scene some five minutes later. But statements from eyewitnesses suggest that the drivers were speeding.
The other was when a motorcyclist, 19-year old Rondell Simmons of Bermine Scheme lost his life on the Main Road in New Amsterdam after colliding with a cow.
At present, Division ‘B’ is on a campaign to prevent private cars working as hire. Several strategies were put in place but the cooperation of the public plays a major role.