Statement
The St. Lucia Medical and Dental Association (SLMDA) recognises with grave concern the rising number of motor vehicular accidents occurring on our nation’s roads. Recent statistics reveal an alarming trend that requires immediate and decisive action from the relevant authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of all citizens.
In 2023, St. Lucia recorded close to 3,000 motor vehicle accidents, with 352 classified as major and 22 resulting in fatalities. The numbers for this year are equally troubling, with 18 deaths already recorded due to road traffic accidents. This significant and sustained increase in accidents has also led to a surge in accident and emergency admissions, placing immense pressure on the already limited healthcare resources.
The current situation is unsustainable. The increased use of emergency services, hospital beds, and medical personnel to attend to victims of road traffic accidents, not only drains critical resources but also impacts the quality of care provided to other patients seeking care at our Healthcare institutions, particularly those with Chronic non-communicable diseases. Immediate measures must be put in place to address this crisis and prevent further loss of life.
A notable increase in vehicular insurance premiums is reflective of the indirect impact that this situation has on the general population.
We urgently call on the relevant authorities to implement measures without delay not limited to:
• Introduction of a Demerit System: Enforce stricter penalties for traffic violations to discourage reckless driving and improve overall road safety.
• Deployment of Breathalyzers: Establish mandatory breathalyser tests at checkpoints to reduce the incidence of drunk driving.
• Installation of Speed Guns: Increase the use of speed detection equipment to deter speeding and enforce speed limits effectively.
• Stricter rules for compliance with standards for the roadworthiness of vehicles
The SLMDA stands ready to support these efforts and collaborate with all relevant stakeholders to promote road safety and in so doing reduce the loss of life, limbs and productivity. We believe that, through coordinated action and the implementation of these measures, we can reduce the number of road traffic accidents and alleviate the burden on our healthcare system.
We urge the relevant authorities to act swiftly and decisively. Fellow citizens, we urge you to do your part, obey traffic rules, drive judiciously and with consideration for fellow road users, reduce speed, ensure vehicles are routinely checked and maintained.
Every day that passes without concrete measures in place leads to increased risk to public safety and the strain on our vital healthcare resources. Let us work together to protect the lives of all citizens and preserve the integrity of our healthcare system. The time to act is now! Together we can do this.