George Town, Grand Cayman – August 27th, 2024

As students prepare to head back to school, the Ministry of Planning, Agriculture, Housing, Infrastructure, Transport & Development, in partnership with the National Roads Authority (NRA), is urging all drivers to exercise extreme caution, particularly in school zones.

With the start of the new school year, increased traffic is anticipated around school zones, including at the newly adjusted entrance to JC Savannah Primary School. This adjustment is part of ongoing efforts to enhance safety, but it requires responsible driving from everyone to be truly effective.

“We cannot emphasize enough the importance of driving carefully in school zones,” said Minister Jay Ebanks of the Ministry of Planning, Agriculture, Housing, Infrastructure, Transport & Development. “With more children on the roads, it’s crucial for drivers to remain vigilant, slow down, and adhere to speed limits. Our goal is to ensure that every child can safely reach their destination.”

The Ministry and NRA remind drivers to:
– Stay alert and watch for school buses and children getting on and off.
– Be mindful of increased pedestrian traffic in school zones.
– Avoid speeding and practice patience, particularly around schools and bus stops.

Recent statistics highlight a concerning rise in accidents related to reckless driving. By driving responsibly and staying aware of our surroundings, drivers can play a vital role in preventing these accidents and protecting our children.

The safety of our students is a shared responsibility. Every road user—from bus drivers to commuters—has a role in ensuring that the school year begins and ends safely for all.