NRSC Advocates use of Electronic Surveillance Systems

The National Road Safety Council (NRSC) is advocating the use of electronic surveillance systems to achieve compliance by road users.

In an interview with JIS News, NRSC Executive Director, Paula Fletcher, said that the Council will remain strident to ensure that provisions are made for the use of technology to improve the standard of safety on the roads.   She said that although the cost factor is significant, it should be seen as an investment and not an expense.

Mrs. Fletcher noted that costs are presently being incurred in the health care system from the impact of crashes.  “It would be better for us to work from the other end of the spectrum…from the end of prevention,” she urged.

The Executive Director  said  it  is important that the  problem be tackled from the angle of bringing about behaviour change regarding road use.                                                   “When we look at the nonchalance with which drivers, pedestrians, pedal cyclists and motorcyclists continuously disregard safe road user practices, it is alarming,” she said.

The Executive Director noted that speeding and reckless/dangerous driving are high on the list of causes of crashes.  “We are challenged as a country to get road users to be more responsible for the safety of all, in a complex environment where cultural norms centre on selfishly flouting the rules of the road,” Mrs. Fletcher  said.

“Safe travel on our roads will only be achieved when all road users exercise best practices, and the protection of life, family and property are foremost in people’s minds. It requires the motoring public to care for and protect pedestrians, children and the elderly,” she emphasized.