Gov’t to introduce new points system to punish traffic offenders

The Attorney General and Minister for Public Safety of Antigua and Barbuda, Sir Steadroy Cutie Benjamin, has recently taken up the cause of improving road safety in the country.

The move comes in response to a worrying increase in the number of road accidents that are occurring, often resulting in fatalities, significant damage to property, and severe injuries that require medical attention.

In fact, the Sir Lester Bird Medical Center Emergency Operating Rooms have been filled to capacity with injured drivers and passengers, particularly on weekends and holidays.

To address this growing concern, Minister Benjamin has urged motorists to exercise caution and take necessary precautions while using the roadways.

He has held meetings with various stakeholders such as the Police, Transport Board, Emergency Medical Services, and Acting Chief Magistrate to discuss the rise in serious traffic accidents and find ways to curb this trend.

Recent statistics have revealed that in 2023, Antigua and Barbuda recorded 2448 traffic accidents with ten fatalities.

From January to April 2024, there have been 859 traffic collisions, which is an increase of sixty-seven compared to the same period in 2023.

Minister Benjamin is determined to tackle the issue of road safety head-on and aims to save lives, prevent property damage, and reduce the impact on the healthcare system of the country.

To achieve this goal, the Attorney General has announced the introduction of a points system to punish traffic offenders.

Better resources will be provided to the police, transport board, and magistrates’ court to enforce traffic laws more effectively.

Breathalyzers have already been made mandatory, and they will detect alcohol or other intoxicating substances wherever they are suspected. Minister Benjamin has called on all residents of Antigua and Barbuda to play their part in ensuring that the roadways of this twin-island nation are safe for both motorists and pedestrians.