Call to Action: Ensuring Safety on Cayman's Roads Together
(Grand Cayman, 27 March 2024) – As the Easter weekend approaches, a period often associated with contemplation and new beginnings, we find ourselves at a critical juncture in the Cayman Islands’ journey towards growth and modernization. Our roads are busier than ever, bustling with an increasing number of vehicles and drivers. This sign of progress also brings forth significant challenges that demand a unified response. In this pivotal moment, the National Road Safety Committee (NRSC), in partnership with the Department of Vehicle and Drivers’ Licensing (DVDL), the Department of Public Safety Communications (PSC-911), the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service (RCIPS), and the National Roads Authority (NRA), is sounding the alarm for immediate community engagement based on the latest road safety data. This collective call to action is not just about addressing the immediate concerns but forging a path to a safer, more responsible future on our roads.
By the Numbers: Growth and Challenge
Since 2020, the number of licensed drivers has surged from 53,779 to 62,798 in 2024, alongside an active vehicle registration exceeding 50,000. This growth, while indicative of our development, brings to light the challenges on our roads. The total number of motor vehicle accidents (MVAs) reported by RCIPS has risen from 2,167 in 2020 to 3,196 in 2023. This uptick is not confined to Grand Cayman alone but is a trend observed across all districts, with George Town, Bodden Town, and West Bay witnessing the most significant increases.
Fatal accidents have remained a constant sorrow, with 9 fatalities reported in 2023, matching the figures from 2020 and 2021. Serious injuries from accidents also continue to impact lives across the islands, with 22 serious injuries reported in 2023.
Diving Deeper: Traffic Offences
The RCIPS has been diligent in detecting and prosecuting traffic offences, a testament to their commitment to road safety. In 2023 alone, there were 10,716 traffic offences detected, marking a substantial increase from 7,651 in 2020. Speeding violations have soared, from 3,999 in 2020 to 4,654 in 2023, highlighting a pressing area for intervention. Meanwhile, offences like driving under the influence and using a mobile phone while driving have seen varying trends but remain significant concerns.
Statistics by Island and the Road Ahead
Our comprehensive analysis reveals a concerning trend across the Cayman Islands, with George Town, Bodden Town, and West Bay experiencing the most significant increases in motor vehicle accidents (MVAs). George Town led with a sharp rise from 1,666 MVAs in 2020 to 2,439 in 2023. Similarly, traffic offences have surged across the islands, with speeding tickets skyrocketing from 3,999 in 2020 to 4,654 in 2023, emphasizing a critical area for intervention.
In the smaller, sister islands, Cayman Brac and Little Cayman, although the numbers are lower, the presence of fatal accidents and offences calls for a unified approach to road safety that includes all three islands. Cayman Brac's MVAs have remained relatively stable, but even one life lost to a preventable accident is one too many.
A Community United for Safety: The Path Forward
The statistics paint a stark picture: as the Cayman Islands grow, so does the responsibility of each driver. The rising trend in road accidents and traffic violations is a call to action for every member of our community. From George Town to Little Cayman, each district has a role to play in safeguarding our roads.as our islands grow, so do our challenges in maintaining safe roads.
Chairman for the NRSC and Chief Officer for Planning, Agriculture, Housing, Infrastructure, Transport and Development Mr Eric Bush said; “The RCIPS is doing their part, with thousands of traffic offences detected and prosecuted, showcasing their vigilance and dedication to keeping our roads safe. However, As we face these challenges, it's clear that the solution does not lie with the police force alone. The NRSC is committed to implementing high-level legislation and stricter enforcement measures. Nevertheless, the core of our strategy is community involvement.”
"We are at a critical juncture where the actions of every individual on the road can save lives. It’s not just about avoiding fines or penalties; it’s about protecting our loved ones and ensuring the safety of our community," states Mr. Eric Bush, Chairman of the NRSC. "We need the full community's support, and must ALL come together, not just as the 62,798 drivers but as families, friends, and neighbours, to stop this trend. Everyone needs to realize every action counts, from obeying speed limits to putting down our phones while driving.”
Take the Pledge
The RoadtoZero initiative is more than a campaign; it's a commitment to each other and the future of the Cayman Islands. "Every one of us holds the power to make our roads safer. It starts with a simple pledge—your pledge—to drive responsibly. Let's do this together," emphasises Chairman Bush.
To become a part of this vital initiative and for more information on how you can contribute to making our roads safer, please visit gov.ky/road-safety.
"Your pledge today is a promise for a safer tomorrow. Join us, and let's pledge for #NoMoreIn2024."
**end of release**
For Media inquiries, please contact:
Ms. Anne Kensington-Lott
Head of Communications and Public Relations
Ministry of Planning, Agriculture, Housing & Infrastructure (PAHI)
Email: Anne.Kensington-Lott@gov.ky
Phone: +1 (345) 244-3611
