The Editor, Sir:
As I drive around the island of Jamaica and observe the different road markings, it begs the question, how many of our drivers are aware of the meaning of these markings?
There needs to be a massive education thrust on the interpretation of road signs and markings. In this piece, however, I want to draw attention to the placing of broken white marks on the Old Harbour Road, St. Catherine.
I know that unbroken white lines in the middle of the road indicate that no overtaking should take place while broken white lines mean that motorists can overtake, providing it is safe to do so.
I have great respect for those persons who are charged with the responsibility of deciding what markings are to be placed on the roads and where. However, there are some broken white lines at some sections of the Old Harbour Road, which I feel are inappropriate markings and contribute to this road being designated as one of Jamaica's 'bad spots'. It is surprising to me that there are not more accidents on this road.
While I admit that as drivers we must behave in a responsible manner on the roads, I think that the authorities can assist the process by ensuring that the roads are appropriately marked. I, therefore, request a revisit of the markings of the Old Harbour Road. If this is not done, I am afraid that the perpetual carnage on this road will continue.
I am, etc.,
MORTIMER SPENCER
evemortspen@yahoo.com.
