In response to the alarming trend of vehicular accidents on the nation’s roadways, the Department of Transport has taken decisive action by partnering with law enforcement to launch a robust Road Safety Initiative.
This initiative is designed to promote responsible road use among motorists and pedestrians. Unlike conventional campaigns that merely focus on enforcement and penalties, the ministry is adopting a proactive approach centered on encouragement and recognition. Officers will actively observe and reward those drivers and pedestrians who practice safe road behaviours.
Participants demonstrating compliance with traffic laws, maintaining proper documentation, wearing seat belts, using indicators correctly, exercising courtesy on the roads, and adhering to pedestrian crossings will receive recognition. Pedestrians meeting the criteria will be rewarded with complimentary $50 vouchers from Massy Stores.
Transport Officer Natalie Biroo emphasized that shared responsibility is vital for road safety.
“This initiative reinforces that road safety is everyone’s concern,” she asserted.
“By recognizing positive behaviour, we will inspire more motorists and pedestrians to make safe and responsible choices every day,” Biroo stated.
The campaign is being conducted along key corridors from Castries Central to the northern part of the island and has already garnered positive feedback and strong public support. The Division of Transport is committed to extending this initiative to the southern region shortly.
Under the theme: Drive to Arrive Alive, the campaign underscores the critical message that safe road practices save lives.
Additionally, during a recent media briefing, senior officers from the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) reiterated the urgent need to enforce traffic regulations for the better flow of vehicular traffic and pedestrian mobility. The police confirmed that the traffic unit will target accident-prone areas and enhance police surveillance at key locations, such as the Gros Islet bus stop—an essential transport service hub—and other bus stops in the city center.
Superintendent of Police Troy Lamontagane, responsible for the Department of Road Safety and Traffic Investigations, stated that the unit “will rigorously enforce all laws of Saint Lucia, particularly those in the Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic Act and its accompanying regulations.”
He recalled that in 2025, the traffic unit successfully reduced the number of road fatalities and serious accidents nationwide.
“In 2026, our focus will intensify as we strive to further reduce serious accidents and road fatalities,” Supt. Lamontagne declared. He affirmed that the traffic unit plans to collaborate closely with stakeholders involved in promoting road safety campaigns, including the Ministry of Transport, the National Insurance Council, insurance companies, the media, and the public.
He highlighted the need for a comprehensive review of the Motor Vehicle and Road Traffic Act, specifically addressing issues such as the importation of tinted vehicles. He also identified another pressing concern regarding the importation of bright headlights and LED lights, which can impair visibility for other drivers at night.
Supt. Lamontagane addressed the serious issue of driving under the influence of alcohol or other mind-altering substances.
“While the law currently lacks a seamless process for identification and confirmation, we are actively exploring methods that will enable police to more easily determine when a driver is intoxicated or under the influence of drugs,” he asserted.