Safety appeal as OBA MP calls roads a ‘national emergency’
The Opposition along with the Bermuda Road Safety Council have urged road users to make safety a priority, in the wake of the island’s third road fatality for 2026 when a female pillion passenger died after a bike crash in St George’s on Saturday evening.
The Shadow Minister of Transport called for “practical, everyday improvements” to make the roads safer and easier to manoeuvre.
Dwayne Robinson said that “good riding habits cannot be fostered by legislation alone,” adding: “We must do all we can to address road safety in Bermuda, as it has become a national emergency.”
The woman’s death at Stone Crusher Corner on Kindley Field Road came after the passing of a 19-year-old involved with a collision with a fire truck on February 2, as well as the death of Adam Tavares after a crash on January 22.
Mr Robinson, said these deaths represented “three families who are grieving,” to whom he extended his “deepest condolences”.
The shadow minister acknowledged planned updates to the National Road Safety Strategy expected by April.
However, he added that the Government could take “meaningful action” by introducing harsher penalties for drink-driving, as well as improving road conditions and working with police to strengthen law enforcement.
Mr Robinson also proposed expanding road safety education opportunities and addressing substance abuse and mental health.
He said: “My constituents frequently raise concerns about overgrown foliage, dangerous potholes, inadequate road lighting and the need for pedestrian crosswalk lights in unsafe locations.
“Several issues I have remedied within my constituency, but others require collaboration with the Ministry of Public Works and Environment.”
Mr Robinson added: “I understand that these issues cannot be solved in a day.
“However, consistent and intentional action to address them could significantly improve road safety in Bermuda. Our lives depend on it.”
Mr Robinson spoke after the council said it was “deeply saddened to hear about the tragic loss of life”.
It said: “Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to the family and loved ones affected by this devastating event.
“This loss is a sombre reminder of the ongoing challenges we face on our roads and the critical importance of responsible driving.
“As a community, we mourn this tragic event and reaffirm our commitment to promoting safer road practices for all Bermudians.”
The BRSC reminded residents to take the necessary time to reach their destination safely, to avoid driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs and to ensure their motor vehicles are properly maintained and in safe operating condition.
It added: “Every life saved is a shared responsibility, and it is incumbent upon each of us to prioritise safety, caution and respect on our roads.
“Let us work together to prevent further tragedies and make Bermuda’s roads safer for everyone.”
Anyone with information or witnesses to the incident on Saturday evening is asked to contact Acting Sergeant Ralshon Douglas on 717-0964 or e-mail at rdouglas@bps.bm.
