BASSETERRE, St. Kitts - THE 2012/2013 Carnival Season comes to a close in a few days, but with the increase in the number of vehicles, motorists and pedestrians occupying the island’s roadways, the Traffic Department is calling for increased caution to be exercised by all road users.
Head of the Traffic Department Superintendent Cromwell Henry recently spoke in an exclusive interview with SKNVibes, during which he explained that because of the congestion that occurs particularly in the Basseterre area during this time of year, it is necessary to issue tips which motorists could use to either ease or prevent traffic congestion.
He said one of the main ways at alleviating this problem is by using alternative routes to get into Basseterre whenever possible.
“The main way is to avoid driving into town if you can take an alternate route. If you need to get from one end of Basseterre to the other end, rather than going through, go around.We recommend the Kim Collins Highway and the F. T. Williams Highway, Taylors Range and Shadwell.”
Another tip issued by the Superintendent is for motorists - who need to go into Basseterre - to park on the outskirts of the city. And for those who manage to access parking within Basseterre, refrain from doing so in restricted areas.
“The other way is, if you must be in town, park on the outskirts and do not go into town expecting to find parking. Park on Victoria Road, at Greenlands, on East Park Range or at Port Zante, because it would not make much sense driving into Basseterre and then have to drive around trying to find a parking spot. That would just add unnecessarily to the congestion.
“For those of you who are in town with your vehicles, avoid parking in restricted areas. Remember, these areas are restricted because we think that if you park there you would inhibit the flow of traffic. So, if there is an increase in traffic during the season and one parks in a restricted area, the problem is only exacerbated.”
The increase in vehicles and motorists – the Superintendent explained – automatically translates to an increased accident risk. Nonetheless, persons’ behaviour while operating these vehicles could help to reduce the risk.
“Some ways to avoid these nuisance accidents are to avoid in-vehicle distractions such as cell phones and other electronic devices such as radios, car stereos, DVDs etc. Avoid using them while you are driving. Drivers tend to think at times that because they are in slow moving traffic they can take the opportunity to take a phone call, send a text message, read a text message etc. These take their attention off the road which increases the risk of accidents.
“Do not take unnecessary risks. For example, if you are in a stop and traffic on the main road is flowing continuously, do not become impatient and try to beat the next car before it reaches you unless the driver acknowledges you and allows you to come out. Do not try to squeeze your way through between vehicles.
“Do not become distracted by activities on the outside. For example, if you are passing a folklore troupe when you are driving, do not gaze at them while you are driving. If you do, you may not recognise the vehicle that is in front of you and the risk of an accident occurring increases.”
Other tips given by the Traffic Head include:
1. When on the open highways, drive within the speed limit for the area that you are in.
2. Do not drive too closely behind the vehicle in front of you. A rule of thumb is for every mile per hour that your travel at, drive three feet from the vehicle in front of you.
3. Always wear your seat belt and ensure that all your passengers are properly restrained.
