Yesterday marked the 15th road fatality of the year less than a week after the road death of 19-year old David Small Jr. last week Monday.

It is the first time in 10 years the number has been higher than 14, in 2006, with 17 road deaths in 1998. The 38-year old Sandys man became the Island's 15th road fatality on Sunday morning. However, Police were unable to disclose his name until family members were notified.

Officers received a report of a serious road traffic collision on Somerset Road, Sandys parish near Arnold's Supermarket at 9.55 a.m. Although details about the incident remain unclear, it appeared the Sandys man was travelling north on a motorcycle on Somerset Road when he lost control while attempting to overtake a car, and hit a wall.

The victim was rushed to the King Edward VII Memorial Hospital via ambulance with serious injuries and pronounced dead shortly after.

A Police spokesman said no further information would be released until the next of kin has been notified.

Police are appealing for any witnesses to this collision to contact PC Greg Battersbee or PC Janeal Parson at the Somerset Police Station on 234-1010.

Angel Nottingham, president of Remembering Our Loved Ones (ROLO), said: "On behalf of ROLO, we would like to extend our condolences to the family of the deceased. And during the festive holiday, if we can ask the community at large to be aware and mindful of drinking and driving. And to pay attention, not only for yourself but other road users. We extend our support to the family."

Premier Ewart Brown added: "We are waiting to hear more from investigators about the road fatality, but any loss of life on our roads is regrettable and, in most cases, avoidable.

"We have several measures on the way that we think will help prevent escalating traffic accidents and save lives."

Opposition Public Safety Minister Michael Dunkley said: "I was very saddened to find that another person has died on the roads. It just goes to show that the message is not getting out there in spite of some of the efforts.

"With the speed limit as low as we have and fairly good driving conditions, we should not have the number of people losing their lives and the number of injuries. It goes to show we need to do all we can to wrap up our efforts to make our streets safer again."

Police Spokesman, Dwayne Caines, said in a general advisory: "Clearly the 15th road traffic fatality marks a pivotal point in where we are on the roads.

"The Bermuda Police Service is appealing for all members of the public to make smart decisions when operating a motor vehicle."

Mr. Caines said it was premature last night to speak about what specific factors if any were involved in the latest fatality.