KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Road Safety Unit in the Ministry of Transport has reported that 24 people have been killed in motor vehicle crashes since the start of this month, pushing the tally to 316 people so far this year in comparison to 379 deaths for the same period in 2016.

“We are appealing to drivers to cut their speed and look out for vulnerable road users, never overtake on a bend or at a junction or unnecessarily; never drive in a manner that will prove offensive to other road users. In addition, always use their seatbelts, ensure passengers in the vehicle utilize them as well as, and children are securely fastened in the correct protective devices,” pleaded Director of the Road Safety Unit, Kenute Hare.

“Of the 316 deaths from 289 fatal crashes, motorcyclists, pedestrians, passenger in private motor vehicles, and drivers of private motor vehicles account for 84 per cent of road users killed to date,” reported the Road Safety Unit.

Statistics from the unit also highlighted that male deaths continue to outnumber female deaths on the nation’s roads and showed that of the 316, 268 were males and 48 were females.

Meanwhile, Hare informed that the country did not meet the target of below 300 and there is projected to be an increase, which is worrying, as motorcyclists and pedestrians continue to be the leading categories of road users being killed.

“In order to have a peaceful Christmas season, road users must obey the rules of the road at all times. We cannot afford to lose anyone else in 2017, slow down and save lives. Remember to drive for the family,” he said.