Jamaica is grappling with a worsening road safety crisis, as the number of traffic fatalities has surged to 312 as of Sunday, marking a 5% increase compared to the same period last year. Dr. Lucien Jones, vice-chairman of the National Road Safety Council (NRSC), expressed deep concern, describing the figures as ‘very alarming’ and a source of widespread distress. The upward trend in road deaths has persisted since June, with spikes of 30% in June and 90% in July, followed by a 38% increase in August. Despite a slight drop to 6% above last year’s figures in September, Jones warned that without immediate action, the annual death toll could exceed 400, surpassing last year’s 365 fatalities and nearing the 435 recorded in 2021. Jones attributed the rise in fatalities to reckless driving behaviors, including speeding, lane indiscipline, and driving under the influence of alcohol and cannabis. He emphasized the urgent need to enforce the Road Traffic Act, particularly the demerit points system, which has yet to be effectively implemented. Jones also highlighted the disproportionate impact on motorcyclists, whose fatalities have risen sharply from 40 in 2010 to nearly 150 in 2022/2023. The recent spate of accidents includes a fatal crash on the Ocho Rios bypass and a collision in Manchester involving an unregistered motorcycle. Jones lamented the loss of productive individuals aged 20 to 50, whose deaths not only cause immense grief but also hinder national development. He called for a collective effort to address the crisis, stressing that road safety requires both stricter enforcement and a cultural shift in driving behavior.