People must adopt safe driving culture – Minister of Health (JIS) – Jamaica Information Service

KINGSTON, August 2 (JIS):

Minister for Health and Wellness Dr Christopher Tufton said as road crashes remained a pressing challenge, it was important that people develop a culture of safe driving and pedestrian awareness.

Speaking at a media conference for the Glennell Road Safety 5km Run at the Sir John Golding Rehabilitation Centre in St Andrew on August 2, the Minister said traffic accidents not only put a strain on medical resources but also have a direct impact on public health.

In a speech represented by the centre’s chief medical officer, Dr Rory Dickson, the minister said: “As we are in the very busy summer period, a time when the risk of road accidents and loss of life is higher, I think this is a great opportunity to emphasise the importance of road safety, but also the importance of personal health and wellness.”

The Minister said aggressive driving behaviour such as following too closely, speeding and road rage are common on Jamaican roads.

“One of my roles is to warn the public about the negative impacts of road accidents, which largely stem from poor driving behaviour, and how this leads to increased demand on health services. As a health system, our resources are already stretched thin by NCDs (non-communicable diseases) and other health issues facing island residents,” Dr Tufton said.

The minister believes that the country’s medical resources should be saved as much as possible by promoting measures that can reduce road traffic accidents and equipping drivers with defensive driving skills.

Dr Tufton noted that the annual Glennell Road Safety 5K Run is dedicated to raising awareness of road safety, drawing attention to road traffic victims and raising funds for charity.

The charity run will take place on Saturday, August 17, with proceeds going to support the work of the rehabilitation centre and Mona High School.

The rehabilitation centre, which is about to celebrate its 70th anniversary, plays an important role in providing basic care and rehabilitation services to people injured in road traffic accidents, contributing to their recovery and well-being.