In recent years just about every possible scheme has been tried, to curb the high rate of speeding on Bermuda’s roads, even using methods to show graphic injuries suffered in high-speed crashes, with little or no change in attitudes by too many of our motorists.

The situation appears to have reached a stage where driving at the recommended speed according to laws designed to promote safety is seen as a handicap by some riders and drivers who prefer to travel at speeds that put others in danger without regard for potential consequences.

Much has been said and written about this problem, which continues to result in mishaps with serious injury — and in some cases far worse.

Speed is certainly not the cause of every significant accident, since consideration has to be given to inattention, health issues and, occasionally, mechanical failure.

Other causes include taking to the wheel while under the influence of alcohol or some other substance that hinders the ability to be fully alert should an emergency arise.

However, the big question that seems never to go away is what on earth can anyone do to alter the mindset of too many motorists who appear to have an out-of-control obsession to override rules as though they are immune to mishap.

It will probably make little difference, but we should be frank and honest about things we observe on a daily basis while travelling about on our narrow, winding roads. Don’t take my word for it, but few people have not had the experience of seeing an approaching rider moving at great speed, overtaking and doing so on your side of the road, causing others to take evasive action to avoid a collision.

It happens so often that it is generally accepted as an unavoidable hazard in the Bermuda of today.

There are many close calls daily and, with the number of vehicles operating on our roads, sooner or later an incident is not just a close call. Emergency vehicles travel at high speeds and that is often to actually save a life.

Many people feel safer in aircraft 40,000 feet above land than riding to and from work each day. A long, hot summer is still ahead and with events up and down the island weekly, our roads will be busier than ever, especially with tourists making use of cycles to sightsee.

There is no way of stopping accidents, but there would be a considerable reduction in serious mishaps if there was a way to at least slow this epidemic of speeding by making motorists more sensitive to the dreadful consequences when something goes wrong.

Police and road safety officials every year appeal to the public to exercise caution at all times on our roads. However, it would appear that, with some motorists, sign language may be needed.

It is not a question of launching an attack on the motoring public but, as Bermudians, we should all be looking out for each other at work, at play or when using our roads.

Safety is of the utmost importance and no one should be willing to accept the danger of speeding as simply a part of today’s lifestyle. Sadly, like it or not, there are people out there driving and riding under varying circumstances.

They are a danger not only to themselves, but to every other road user.

With the present mindset and the number of vehicles moving about, even those trying to keep safety as a priority are at risk by just being on the roads. There seems to be no solution in sight to bring about a dramatic change in attitudes that make just getting from A to B an adventure. The speed factor is important because with excessive speed, the slightest mistake leaves little room for correction. No science needed for that.

There would be a safer summer on our roads for all if each motorist thinks a little more about safety before heading out on a bike or driving to and from various destinations.

Bermuda should be able to do better, rather than be contented with an epidemic of speeding, which for now has no apparent cure.