The Director of the Road Safety Unit (RSU) is once again encouraging motorists and motorcyclists to adhere to speed limits and ensure the use of proper protective equipment, such as seatbelts and helmets, when using the roadways, as 31 people were killed in 24 fatal collisions in September.

These fatalities pushed the number of fatalities to 340.

According to a report from the RSU, a breakdown reveals that the top three categories with the highest number of fatalities were, motorcyclists, consisting of 14 fatalities, pedestrians, with seven fatalities and public motor car passengers, with four fatalities.

Further statistics revealed that 87 per cent were male and 13 per cent were female. The main cause of fatalities was proceeding at excessive speed with no regards to condition.

At the start of the year private motor vehicle passenger fatalities for 2022 were projected to decrease by 13 per cent, however the projection as at the second quarter projects a decrease of three per cent.

Additionally, one child died as a result of a fatal crash in September. However, child fatalities have decreased by 50 per cent when compared with a similar period in 2021.

But, three elders died as a result of two fatal traffic crashes in September, with elderly fatalities having no change when compared with a similar period in 2021.

At the same time, seven pedestrians have died as a result of seven fatal pedestrian crashes, and pedestrian fatalities have decreased by 36 per cent when compared to the corresponding period in 2021.

“Pedestrians should ensure they are vigilant when walking on the road, wear bright coloured clothing at nights, cross at safe places and wait until vehicles come to a complete stop before stepping out in the road. Pedal cyclists are also advised to wear bright coloured clothing at nights, and use reflective gears to ensure they can be seen at all times,” the RSU advised.

The year 2021 recorded 487 road fatalities; this represents the highest number of road fatalities recorded on the road network. In an effort to reduce road fatalities and to not match or surpass last year’s figure, road users should exercise greater care on the roads.