KINGSTON, Jamaica —Pedestriansure are being urged to take greater responsibility for their safety when traversing the nation’s roadways and comply with the law.

The appeal comes from Assistant Attorney General in the Ministry of Science, Energy, Telecommunications and Transport, Amanda Bethune.

“Road safety is not solely the responsibility of motorists. Pedestrians must also remain alert and aware of their surroundings. By working together, we can reduce pedestrian fatalities and make our roads safer for everyone,” she told JIS News.

Bethune pointed out that walking or standing on the roadway are the leading causes of pedestrian fatalities, accounting for 172 deaths over the past five years.

Excessive speeding and pedestrians’ failure to properly check for oncoming traffic before crossing were also cited as significant contributors.

“Pedestrians [also] focus a lot on their cell phones, tablets and other devices, which has become one of the leading causes of pedestrian deaths on our roads,” Bethune added.

She reminds them to observe road safety practices when travelling.

“The Road Traffic Act, 2018, makes it clear that pedestrians must use designated crossings and obey pedestrian signals. No pedestrian should suddenly step into a crossing in the path of an oncoming vehicle that

cannot stop safely,” she emphasised.

For roads without sidewalks, Bethune said pedestrians are required to walk as close to the edge as possible unless signage indicates otherwise. They must also ensure it is safe before crossing and should not linger unnecessarily on the road.

The ministry is ramping up efforts to encourage pedestrians to be mindful of their actions and to keep each other safe and has launched the ‘Look Out Before You Step Out’ public education campaign.

“We have to develop a culture of mutual responsibility,” Bethune underscored.

-JIS