Glenroy Sinclair, Staff Reporter
IN AN attempt to reduce the number of traffic accidents and fatalities on the road for the Christmas season, the police will be targeting overloaded vehicles, careless and reckless drivers and motorists who continue to drive while under the influence of alcohol.
"Come next week, we will intensify our operation. There are some things that we will be doing, I cannot say much about it now," Senior Superintendent Elan Powell of the Police Traffic Division told The Gleaner yesterday.
CELLULAR PHONE
While there is nothing on the books to charge motorists who use their cellular phones while driving, SSP Powell says that, if while using a mobile phone motorists drive carelessly or recklessly or run the red light, then they can be prosecuted.
In his strategic plan, Mr. Powell intends to increase the number of police on the road. The officer stressed that the respective traffic sections in the Corporate Area and St. Cath-erine will be boosted by at least 20 officers who are now completing a specialist course.
"Special emphasis will be placed on motorists who speed, drive carelessly, PPV drivers who overload vehicles, overtake carelessly and drive on soft shoulders," said SSP Powell.
He attributed the majority of the reported accidents to improper overtaking. So far this year, 278 fatal accidents have occurred which is 34 fewer than at the corresponding period last year.
He said that if drivers cooperate and obey the provisions of the Road Traffic Act, the calendar year should end on a positive note.
The senior officer is advising commuters not to travel in vehicles that are already full. He is also insisting that motorists ensure that their vehicles are properly serviced, the braking mechanism is working properly, tyres are roadworthy and that all lights are working.
