Traffic Department Boss points to a spike in collision

There has been a spike in the number of traffic collisions reported to the Traffic Department of the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda between January and May compared to the same period last year.

Head of the Traffic Department, Superintendent Elson Quammie, is appealing to the public to adhere to road rules and remain vigilant.

“Between January and May of 2023, we had a total of 965 collisions. In 2024, during the same period, we had 1,089 traffic collisions. This represents an increase of 124 traffic accidents, amounting to a 13% rise in road traffic accidents,” Quammie said.

He also noted the troubling rise in injuries. In the first five months of this year, 194 people were hurt in road accidents, compared to 108 last year.

Superintendent Quammie discussed what he believes is driving the surge.

“I believe some of the contributing factors are the increase in the number of vehicles on our roads. Last year, we had over 40,000 registered vehicles. In 2023, the number has continued to grow each month.”

He also pointed to speeding, road conditions, and insufficient police enforcement as contributing factors.

“When you see a driver exceeding the speed limit and driving dangerously, flick your lights, blow your horn, let them know. They need to come to consciousness. They are putting their life and others’ lives at risk. You have to look out for pedestrians, and the police alone cannot do it,” Quammie said.