Road safety officials are calling for greater care from motorists, pedestrians and other road users after 103 people were killed in traffic accidents between January and October this year.
The toll, recorded from January 1 to October 31, was four fewer than the 107 deaths reported over the same period in 2025. Total traffic accidents fell by 16 per cent, but officials at the launch of National Road Safety Month 2026 said the figures still reflect a serious loss of life.
Traffic Chief Assistant Commissioner Mahendra Singh said speeding remains a major factor in road accidents. He described unsafe driving as a behavioural problem, pointing to motorists who take risks and fail to adjust their speed to traffic, pedestrians and road conditions.
Inspector Richard Trotz, the Guyana Police Force’s traffic education officer, said knowing the traffic laws does not always translate into safe conduct. He noted that motorists may rush because they leave home late or fail to stop at signs, while pedestrians can be distracted by their phones or neglect to use crossings and check for approaching traffic.
The launch also highlighted impaired driving, improper overtaking, fatigue, poorly maintained vehicles and poor visibility as road hazards. Motorcyclists and pillion riders were urged to wear properly secured helmets, while pedestrians and cyclists were encouraged to wear bright or reflective clothing at night.
Police are using radar guns, patrols and speed cameras to tackle speeding, Singh said. Cameras currently cover key routes in Regions Three and Four, with plans to expand the system nationwide. About 84,000 tickets have been issued since the cameras began operating last year. Repeat speeding offenders may also face demerit points and possible licence suspension.
In a recorded message, Prime Minister Mark Phillips said the Government is strengthening enforcement and road safety education, while working to improve street lighting, road markings and traffic signs. He urged road users to respect speed limits and avoid reckless or distracted driving.
The National Road Safety Council said activities are planned across all ten regions, including outreach in schools. Coordinator Ramona Doorgen said reducing crashes and deaths requires cooperation from communities, businesses and every person who uses the road.
Durjan added that the impact extends beyond fatalities, saying about 300 people visit the Georgetown Public Hospital’s emergency department each month with injuries from road crashes. Singh said the longer-term goal is to reduce accidents and deaths by 50 per cent by 2030.
