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ROAD SAFETY – Driving Change through Education, Enforcement & Compliance

SRC Road Safety – Driving Change through Education, Enforcement & Compliance Blog Cover Image
Brought to you by Serenity Resource Connector in partnership with JCF Area 3 and sponsored by National Self-Serve Wholesale (May Pen, Clarendon)

Road Safety in Jamaica: A Shared Responsibility

Jamaica’s roads tell a story every day—of movement, opportunity, and unfortunately, sometimes tragedy. In our latest Community Safety and Security Forum, hosted in partnership with JCF Area 3 and supported by National Self-Serve Wholesale, we sat down with road safety champions to unpack the real issues behind the wheel.


This lively session tackled everything from vehicle inspection myths to pedestrian safety, traffic enforcement, and the Safe Systems Approach. Whether you're a motorist, pedestrian, parent, or policymaker—this one’s for you.


Myth-Busting Vehicle Inspections with the ITA

Sheldon Grant, Senior Vehicle Inspector at the Island Traffic Authority (ITA), came in blazing to clear up misconceptions:


  • No joyrides involved: Quick accelerations and sudden braking are necessary safety checks.

  • Inspectors are verifying:

    • ABS functionality

    • Suspension and steering response

    • Hidden faults like removed warning lights from dashboards

  • The famous “figure eight test”? That’s to ensure your car steers back to centre like it’s designed to.

Takeaway: Vehicle inspections are not just about passing—they're about preserving life on the road.

Road Fatalities and Law Enforcement Realities

SSP Winchester Watson from the Public Safety and Traffic Enforcement Branch shared sobering statistics:


  • Top offences being enforced:

    • Speeding

    • Overtaking without signalling

  • Biggest causes of fatal crashes:

    • Head-on collisions from failure to keep left

    • Poorly lit, unmarked, or bush-covered roads

  • Emphasis on infrastructure:

    • Repainting road markings

    • Trimming roadside vegetation

    • Ensuring proper sidewalks and crosswalks

"If we get the speed down and keep left, we’ll save more lives." — SSP Watson

Loose Livestock, Distracted Drivers & Highway Etiquette


Our roads face unexpected hazards:

  • Cows, goats, and other animals straying onto highways.

  • Drivers using mobile phones or blocking the right lane without cause.

  • Disrespect for emergency vehicles, especially at toll booths.


👉 We must hold animal owners accountable and encourage driver courtesy.


Police Checkpoints: Comply First, Complain Later

We get it—being stopped by the police can feel tense. But here's the breakdown from the JCF:


  • Slow down.

  • Comply with instructions.

  • Carry your documents.

  • If something feels wrong, note names, badge numbers, or vehicle plates—then report it after.

📣 "Comply, then complain." That’s the mantra for smoother checkpoint experiences.

Community Power: Road Safety Starts With Us

We can’t expect law enforcement to be everywhere—but we can be.


What you can do:

  • Report reckless driving with videos/photos.

  • Encourage helmet use, especially among motorcyclists.

  • Teach children early about proper road behaviour.

  • Wear reflective clothing when walking at night.

  • Avoid distractions (yes, we see you texting and walking!).

💡 “From the handcart man to the trailer driver, road safety is everyone’s business.”

Final Thoughts from Our Panel

Our speakers left us with important reflections:


  • Victor Anderson (NRSC):

    • The helmet is your best friend—always wear it.

    • Road safety begins with empathy for others on the road.

  • Sheldon Grant (ITA):

    • New vehicles are so quiet, you don’t realise you’re speeding.

    • Check your speedometer frequently!

  • SSP Watson (JCF):

    • Stop using illegal bright lights.

    • Be courteous and dim your lights for oncoming traffic.


▶️ Watch the Replay

Missed the forum? No worries.📺 Catch the full session here: Click to Watch


Additional Resources

Here’s how you can take action and stay informed:



📞 Traffic Ticketing System: Call or WhatsApp 876-836-0270


📢 Join the Movement

Let’s keep the conversation alive:


✅ Share this blog with your family, school groups, and communities.

✅ Follow Serenity Resource Connector on social media.

✅ Subscribe for our monthly Second Thursday Forums.


Together, we can make Jamaica’s roads safer for everyone.




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