RCIPS Road Safety Initiatives
During the first quarter of 2024, the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service (RCIPS) tackled over 1,500 traffic offences. Three initiatives were launched to reduce road accidents and enhance the safety of drivers and pedestrians, particularly during peak traffic times.
Enhancing Night-Time Road Safety Through Increased Checkpoints
Recognising the increased accident risk that occurs as night falls, the RCIPS bolstered night-time vehicle checkpoints island wide. From 9:00 PM to 3:00 AM, primarily on weekends, but also any other period identified as having high incidences of road accidents and traffic violations, due to increased pedestrian and vehicular activity, were targeted, contributing to improved night time road safety.
Increasing Speed Limit Enforcement on Key Highways
Speeding is a major issue on Grand Cayman's busiest roads. Last quarter, the RCIPS targeted Esterly Tibbetts Highway, Shamrock Road, and Bodden Town Road. In collaboration with the National Roads Authority (NRA), DVDL, and the Department of Public Safety Communications (911), increased patrols and roadside speed radars were deployed based on real-time data. Increased police visibility helps calm speeding, and enables officers to focus on preventative measures such as enforcement of the types of poor driving behavior that can lead to collisions, such as using a phone while driving.
Operation “Clyro” Road Safety and Education Campaign
As part of the National Road Safety Strategy (NRSS), the RCIPS, in partnership with the Department of Vehicle & Drivers Licensing and the Public Transport Board, conducted Operation "Clyro" from 22 March to 5 April 2024, over Easter Holiday Weekend. Phase 2 of Operation Clyro ran from 24th June to 7th July 2024, over Carnival and the holiday weekend. These campaigns inform the community of the preventative measures the police put in place to protect the community during times of increased road usage.
Proposed Legislative Reforms
The NRSS “Enforcement” Sub-Committee, of which the RCIPS is a member of, are reviewing legislative reforms, such as the introduction of a demerit point system for driver's licenses and increasing traffic fines to deter violations. These changes aim to create a more disciplined driving culture and enhance overall road safety.
Tips to Improve our Driving Culture
It involves driving with a mindset of always anticipating hazards, staying aware, and making proactive decisions.
Allow at least two car lengths behind the vehicle you are following. This provides space for you to react if a sudden stop is required.
if itIIf it's raining, increase your following distance to allow for a slippery road.
This informs other drivers of your intended manoeuvre before you do it, helping to avoid unnecessary collisions.
Let’s Continue Working Together
Addressing these challenges and initiatives shows the Cayman Islands Government's commitment to improved road safety for all. Our collective efforts aim to foster responsible driving and significantly reduce preventable accidents. Together, we can create a safer road environment for everyone. Participate in our road safety programmes, adhere to traffic laws, and practice defensive driving.