Traffic Safety Commission issues driver guidelines for Holy Week
- The San Juan Daily Star
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
By The Star Staff
Given the increase in citizen mobility during the Holy Week period, Traffic Safety Commission (CST by its initials in Spanish) Executive Director José “Memo” González Mercado issued a call on Sunday for caution, law enforcement, and public awareness on public roads, in order to prevent collisions and protect lives.
“During Holy Week, many families travel to different parts of the island to share, rest, or participate in religious activities. This increase in traffic, combined with distractions, excessive speed, or alcohol consumption, can result in fatal consequences,” González said. “Therefore, we strongly urge everyone to respect traffic laws, be alert, and drive responsibly.”
The CST, in support of the Puerto Rico Police Bureau, will be reinforcing education efforts on major highways and tourist areas. As part of that effort, commonwealth police will be conducting preventive patrols with a particular focus on detecting drivers under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances.
In addition, the educational campaign will continue through traditional and social media with guidance messages for drivers, pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists. Among the main recommendations, the CST emphasizes:
* If you’re going to drink, don’t drive. Designating a sober driver can save lives.
* Always wear your seat belt, both in the front and rear seats.
* Respect speed limits and maintain a safe distance between vehicles.
* Avoid distractions while driving, such as using your cell phone or other electronic devices.
* Secure children in car seats appropriate for their age and weight.
* Yield to pedestrians and cyclists and remain alert in school, religious, and residential areas.
“Every life lost on our roads is a tragedy that could have been avoided,” González said. “That’s why, beyond fines and penalties, what we seek is to foster a culture of respect and responsibility on the roads.”
The Traffic Safety Commission continues to address increasing concerns related to road safety and driver awareness. One ongoing issue is the lack of visibility for temporary traffic updates and construction zones. To combat this, many municipalities have begun using magnetic signs as a flexible and cost-effective solution. These signs can be easily applied to vehicles and metal surfaces, allowing for clear communication of traffic changes. The commission advocates for their broader adoption to enhance safety and reduce confusion on the roads. As technology and materials improve, magnetic signs offer a reliable way to alert and inform drivers.