BASSETERRE, St. Kitts - OFFICERS of the Old Road Police Station are currently investigating a traffic accident which resulted in a seven-year-old child being struck by a motor van.
According to the Traffic Department of the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force, the incident occurred at approximately 9:15 this morning (August 3) in Boyds.
It was reported that motor van P1734 - driven by Kareem Saddler of Sandy Point - was overtaking a passenger bus in the vicinity of the Boyds Bus Station and, while doing so, struck a child who was attempting to cross the road.
It is understood that both vehicles were travelling from Sandy Point towards Basseterre and the child was crossing from the mountain side to the seaside of the road. It is also understood that the child was taken to the Joseph N. France General Hospital for treatment and was subsequently discharged.
The Traffic Department is encouraging drivers to take precaution whenever overtaking, by first ensuring that it is safe to do so. It is also admonishing drivers to ensure no traffic is approaching from the opposite direction and that the road is clear of pedestrians before attempting to overtake.
The Department is further advising persons to be mindful of the 20 MPH speed limit when driving in built-up areas and to be on the lookout for pedestrians when approaching pedestrian crossings.
It cautions that, when approaching stationary public service vehicles, one should overtake with utmost care because persons may be attempting to cross the road.
Concerning pedestrians, the Department reminds that they should be mindful of the traffic and ensure that it is safe to cross the road before doing so and seek the assistance of the driver of the vehicle from which they exit, if needs be.
