Roadside sobriety testing could be brought back for the Christmas season, the Minister of Transport said today.

In a statement to the House of Assembly, Lawrence Scott also urged people to pick a designated driver who would stay sober and drive.

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Road Safety Council –Designated Driver Campaign.pdf

The Minister acknowledged “the sobering fact that 16 lives have been lost to road traffic accidents in 2021”. “I extend my condolences to the families and friends that are grieving the untimely loss of a loved one.”

He said: “We recognise the impact road sobriety checkpoints have had on road safety, and the Ministry of Transport will be working with Bermuda Police Service and the Road Safety Council to reintroduce it for the holiday season.”

And he added: “With a few weeks to go until Christmas, holiday parties will be taking place, which is why the Bermuda Road Safety Council’s slogan for December is – Designate YOUR Driver!

“A designated driver is crucial for everyone to enjoy a safe holiday season. Designated drivers are an integral part of keeping roads safe, and by educating friends and family, we can work together to lower the number of accidents and deaths.

“An alarming trend observed by the Road Safety Council is persons choosing the ‘person who seems least intoxicated’ of the group to get behind the wheel after a night of drinking instead of a completely sober driver.

“That is why it is crucial to designate a driver before any drinking takes place. Mr. Speaker, with the holiday season approaching, there will be an increase in events and parties where alcohol will be consumed.

“We want everyone to have a safe holiday. If you cannot secure a designated driver, remember that there are always ways to get home safe without getting behind the wheel, such as hiring a taxi or minibus, using HITCH or Homesafe, or calling a family member or friend to come to pick you up.”

The Minister said that next month, the RSC, in conjunction with the Ministry of Education, will launch the second annual P6 Road Safety Essay Competition on the topic, ‘What dangers can you encounter when walking and riding your pedal bikes on the road, and what can you do to stay safe’?

He said the first annual M1 Road Safety Essay Competition would be on the topic, ‘Why do we have speed limits and why are they so important’?

“The RSC will continue with its monthly public education and awareness campaigns. The Ministry believes that if we start the conversation on road safety with our children and everyone we love using Bermuda roads, we can make better road safety decisions,” added the Minister.