Chief Inspector Robert Cardwell – The Bermuda Police Service wishes to take this opportunity to remind the public that use of the roads in a safe manner is the responsibility of all. The Christmas Season does not diminish this responsibility in any way.

The Christmas Season is upon us. It is a time for celebration and get-togethers. House parties and office parties are scheduled. With these parties comes alcohol consumption. Bermuda continues to have an average of 1 fatality a month. It is often the case looking back at fatality statistics that there will be a road traffic fatality suffered over the Christmas period. This means another family having to grieve at a time when families should be getting together to celebrate.

Road side sobriety testing commenced as of 23rd September this year. Since it commenced 61 people have been arrested for impaired driving offences. 276 people have been arrested to date in 2018 for impaired driving. So far in 2018 we have recorded 11 road traffic fatalities. In a 5 year period between 2014 and 2018 Bermuda has recorded an astonishing 59 road traffic fatalities. In perspective, in the same period 2014 to 2018 there have been 12 individuals shot and killed.

In road traffic fatality investigations we continue to find that alcohol or speed, sometimes both, were significant factors in the collision. Both can be avoided. Don’t drink and drive and slow down. Safe driving and responsible use of the roads is the responsibility of everyone.

If your work colleague, friend or relative has consumed alcohol, they might not be in the best mind to make the right decision. Take steps to deter them from driving or riding. Look out for each other.

In our continued efforts to calm the roads, make the roads safer and save lives the Bermuda Police Service will put measures in place to increase our visibility on the roads over the Christmas and New Year period.

This is geared towards the prevention and deterrence of bad driving behaviour. To this end the motoring public are reminded that there is zero tolerance towards bad driving behaviours. This includes impaired driving, dangerous driving, driving without due care and attention, speeding and use of cellular telephones whilst driving. Offenders will find themselves before the Magistrates’ Court.

By adhering to the traffic laws of Bermuda and taking steps to consciously use the roads safely it is the hope of the Bermuda Police Service that the year will end without further loss of life or serious life-long injuries being suffered.

The Bermuda Police Service wishes everyone a safe, peaceful and happy Christmas period.