Jamaican government steps up road safety efforts with helmet donation

The Government of Jamaica has donated 2,000 helmets to be distributed to motorcyclists across the island to bolster the efforts of the National Helmet Wearing Coalition (NHWC).

The initiative, unveiled at the Jamaica National (JN) Group of Companies offices on Oxford Road in St Andrew, marks a major step towards improving road safety.

Safe investment

At the handover ceremony on Wednesday, June 12, National Security Minister Dr Horace Chang highlighted the worrying injury rate among motorcyclists, especially young males.

The government recognised the urgent need to strengthen road safety measures and provided helmets worth $28 million.

Dr Zhang stressed that while public safety education is crucial, the actual act of wearing a helmet is even more important to protect lives and ensure the safety of other road users.

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Road Safety Partnership

JN Foundation President Parris A. Lyew-Ayee acknowledged the Ministry of National Security as a key partner in this effort.

He noted that the donation will strongly support the alliance’s mission to promote road safety.

The distribution program targets underserved communities to ensure broad accessibility and maximum impact.

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NHWC’s Commitment to Safety

The NHWC is dedicated to increasing helmet usage among riders and passengers. Their responsibilities include conducting research, engaging stakeholders and understanding the current state of helmet usage in Jamaica.

According to worrying statistics from the National Road Safety Council, about 600 motorcyclists have died since 2012, so the alliance’s efforts are vital.

According to reports, more than 90% of the victims were not wearing helmets at the time of the accident.

Grim statistics highlight the need for action

Data from the Ministries of Science, Energy, Telecommunications and Transport and the Jamaica Constabulary Force show that motorcyclist deaths account for approximately 30 percent of road traffic fatalities in Jamaica during the given period.

This highlights the urgent need to increase helmet usage and continue to promote road safety initiatives.

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