Statistics show a life could be lost on the roads over the festive season, a police traffic officer warned yesterday.

Chief Inspector Robert Cardwell said that, despite the party atmosphere, people should not forget the need to drive responsibly over the Christmas period.

He added: “It is a time for celebration and get-togethers. House parties and office parties are scheduled. With these parties comes alcohol consumption.

“Bermuda continues to have an average of one fatality a month. It is often the case looking back at fatality statistics that there will be a road traffic fatality suffered over the Christmas period.

“This means another family having to grieve at a time when families should be getting together to celebrate.”

Mr Cardwell said 276 people had been arrested so far this year for drink-driving and eleven people had died on the roads.

He added: “In road traffic fatality investigations, we continue to find that alcohol or speed, sometimes both, were significant factors in the collision.

“Both can be avoided. Don’t drink and drive, and slow down. Safe driving and responsible use of the roads is the responsibility of everyone.”

Mr Cardwell told the public: “If your work colleague, friend or relative has consumed alcohol, they might not be in the best mind to make the right decision.

“Take steps to deter them from driving or riding.”

Mr Cardwell said police planned a roads blitz over the holiday period in an attempt to deter criminal activity.

He added: “The motoring public are reminded that there is zero tolerance towards bad driving behaviour.

“This includes impaired driving, dangerous driving, driving without due care and attention, speeding and use of cellular telephones while driving.”

Mr Cardwell said: “Offenders will find themselves before the Magistrates’ Court.

“By adhering to the traffic laws of Bermuda and taking steps to consciously use the roads safely, it is the hope of the BPS that the year will end without further loss of life or serious lifelong injuries being suffered.”