And while the community is coming together to support the families, there has still been no clearly articulated strategy from central government.
We asked for something to denote an inflection point in how road safety is managed in this country, and today we got…a press release full of the usual platitudes.
The release from the Ministry of Youth, Sports, and Transport says, quote, "We urge all road users to exercise extreme caution: stay within speed limits, always use seat belts, remain mindful of road conditions, avoid drinking and driving, and overtake only when it is safe and legal." End quote.
It's not much more than the usual platitudes which have been mouthed all through this year - which is sure to be the deadliest on record when it comes to traffic fatalities.
Jules Vasquez has more:
In a country where this can still happen - yes that's three passengers crowded into a trunk heading into Belize City between miles 3 and 5 - the chief Transport officer stresses that road safety is often about personal choices:
Leon Gentle, Chief Transport Officer
"We as a public have to take the initiative, one, to encourage our people who have these types of vehicles or motorcycles to be on the right side of the law, we have to also ask them to take ownership for the decisions that they make."
"Because some of these things can be avoided by just making the right decision. So at some point, we, the community, the culture, ourselves internally need to accept it and make a change for ourselves."
But, for those not so encouraged, the Ministry says that
"In collaboration with the police department and municipal traffic authorities, we will increase patrols and vehicle checkpoints, particularly at night, to enhance enforcement of traffic regulations."
We wouldn't quite call that a detailed action plan, which in the aftermath of the worst traffic tragedy ever - is what is so sorely needed.
The release adds, "Violators of traffic regulations will be dealt with to the fullest extent of the law." End quote.
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