Dear Editor,

On the Observer letters page of August 16, we noted a call from Edgeton Newman, president of the Transport Operators’ Development Sustainable Services, for the establishment of crash spot zones.

We would like to remind the public that Jamaica’s crash hot spots have been identified since 2012, through a collaboration of JN General Insurance Company (JNGI), Mona GeoInformatics, the Ministry of Transport, Works and Housing, using data from the Jamaica Constabulary Force.

The identification of these crash hot spots was the basis on which JNGI has placed 25 warning signs across our country’s road network to alert drivers about these danger zones. Among the most prominent danger zones are sections of Highway 2000, Constant Spring Road, the North Coast Highway and Mandela Highway, which have all been sign-posted to alert drivers to be cautious.

In addition to the marked crash hot spots we are also proud that a world class online Fatal Crash Map on our website at www.jngijamaica.com can help users to identify the most dangerous areas in the country’s road network.

The online Fatal Crash Map is updated regularly and provides the public with the location and description of every fatal road accident in Jamaica from January 1, 2015. It was developed and is managed by the Mona Geoinformatics Institute to encourage increase safety for road users.

The Road Safety Unity of the Ministry of Housing, Transport, Water and Works also has an excellent online map indicating the island’s crash hot spots.

We urge road users to exercise additional caution in the sign-posted danger zones and take advantage of the useful road safety resources available; but above all, to drive with care.

Chris Hind

General Manager

JN General Insurance Company