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Health Ministry Joins Call for Safety on the Roads

By: , December 22, 2017

The Key Point:

Minister of Health, Dr. the Hon. Christopher Tufton, is reiterating calls for persons to take care on the roads as they travel across the country to visit with family and friends during the festive season.
Health Ministry Joins Call for Safety on the Roads
Photo: Contributed
Minister of Health, Dr. the Hon. Christopher Tufton. (FILE)

The Facts

  • Speaking with JIS News Dr. Tufton noted that “we have seen too many road traffic crashes, and this has significantly disrupted the lives of families and loved ones. Also, the health sector continues to come under severe pressure, and I want to implore all Jamaicans to exercise extreme caution during the festive season”.
  • He is imploring persons to practise good road-safety habits, such as driving at a moderate speed; starting their journey at a reasonable time in order to avoid having to rush; always using seat belts; ensurimg that children are using proper safety gear; and getting a designated driver if you consume alcohol and other substances.

The Full Story

Minister of Health, Dr. the Hon. Christopher Tufton, is reiterating calls for persons to take care on the roads as they travel across the country to visit with family and friends during the festive season.

Speaking with JIS News Dr. Tufton noted that “we have seen too many road traffic crashes, and this has significantly disrupted the lives of families and loved ones. Also, the health sector continues to come under severe pressure, and I want to implore all Jamaicans to exercise extreme caution during the festive season”.

He is imploring persons to practise good road-safety habits, such as driving at a moderate speed; starting their journey at a reasonable time in order to avoid having to rush; always using seat belts; ensurimg that children are using proper safety gear; and getting a designated driver if you consume alcohol and other substances.

According to the Health Metrics and Evaluation of 2015, road traffic crashes are the 11th highest cause of premature deaths in Jamaica.

In addition to fatalities, it is estimated in the report that more than 10,000 persons are injured annually in road traffic crashes.

The treatment of these injuries puts a strain on the healthcare sector and significantly impacts productivity, primarily among young people.

Road traffic injuries may also require long-term rehabilitation, while in more severe cases, persons may be unable to return to formal employment due to permanent damage such as amputation or severe brain injury.

Road crashes are associated with increased substance abuse and a general increase in travel, among other things.

Last Updated: December 22, 2017

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