KINGSTON, Jamaica — Minister with responsibility for Transport, Daryl Vaz, has expressed deep sorrow over a recent surge in fatal road crashes, which have claimed the lives of 223 Jamaicans so far this year.

In a statement issued on Thursday, Vaz extended condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims, describing the tragic losses as a devastating blow to communities across the island.

“These tragic losses are not mere statistics — they are sons, daughters, parents, and valued members of our communities,” he said.

The minister’s statement comes just weeks after he made a similar appeal during Road Safety Month in June, calling on Jamaicans to adopt safer and more responsible behaviours on the roads. However, with the death toll continuing to rise, the minister is doubling down on the urgency of the issue.

“I am particularly disturbed by the circumstances surrounding many of these incidents, which often involve excessive speeding, distracted driving, the non-use of seat belts and safety gear, and in some cases, impaired driving,” he said. “These are preventable causes that demand a complete cultural shift in how we treat our roads and each other.”

Minister Vaz emphasised that addressing the crisis goes beyond law enforcement and requires a nationwide mindset change.

“Every road user must take responsibility for their actions and recognise that reckless choices have fatal consequences,” he stressed.

In response to the increase in road fatalities, the Ministry of Transport will be ramping up collaboration with the Jamaica Constabulary Force, the Island Traffic Authority, the National Road Safety Council, and other key stakeholders. These efforts will include increased patrols, roadside checks, and targeted public education campaigns in high-risk areas.

Minister Vaz called on all Jamaicans whether motorists, passengers, pedestrians, or cyclists, to play their part in reversing the troubling trend.

“This is a critical moment. No law or regulation will be effective unless we, as a nation, recommit to valuing life and showing care and discipline on our roads. Road safety is not just a slogan — it is a shared duty,” he said.

The minister also encouraged the public to remain vigilant, obey traffic laws, and report reckless behaviour. Only through collective action, he said, can Jamaica reduce road fatalities and create a safer transport environment for all.