LTA Acting CEO’s Christmas message 2023

As we approach the festive season, the Land Transport Authority extends warm greetings to you and your loved ones. Christmas is a time of merrymaking, joy, and happiness, where families and friends come together to celebrate the spirit of the season.

Travelling to be with family and friends is a beautiful part of the holiday tradition. This Christmas, let’s ensure our journeys are not only filled with festive cheer but are also safe and secure. Remember, the greatest gift you can give is arriving at your destination safely.

Amid the festivities, it is also crucial to reflect on the importance of life and the impact of our actions on the well-being of ourselves and others.

This year has brought both joyous moments and challenges, and it is with a heavy heart that we share the sobering news of an increase in road fatalities. Compared to the same period last year, the number has risen to 72, a stark contrast to the 38 recorded previously.

Each number represents a life—a family member, a friend, a loved one—whose presence will be sorely missed this holiday season.

Christmas is a time for reflection and gratitude, a moment to appreciate the precious gift of life. As we revel in the festivities, it is imperative that we also recognise the responsibility we bear towards the safety of ourselves and our community. The alarming rise in road traffic accidents and fatalities is a stark reminder that adherence to road safety rules and regulations is more critical than ever.

This festive season, we urge everyone to prioritise safety on the roads. Whether you're heading to holiday gatherings, embarking on a journey, or simply enjoying the local festivities, remember that your choices behind the wheel impact not only your life but the lives of those around you.

Here are some essential road safety reminders:

• Drive Responsibly: Avoid distractions, obey speed limits, and never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

• Buckle Up: Ensure everyone in the vehicle wears a seatbelt, regardless of the distance of the journey.

• Plan Ahead: Plan your travel routes, take breaks to avoid fatigue, and be patient on the roads.

• Respect Traffic Rules: Follow traffic signals, signs, and guidelines to maintain order and safety on the roads.

• Encourage Responsible Behaviour: Share the importance of road safety with your family and friends, fostering a culture of responsibility as drivers, passengers and pedestrians.

By adhering to these simple guidelines, we can collectively contribute to reducing the alarming statistics and creating a safer environment for all. Embrace the spirit of the season by being a responsible road user. Your commitment to road safety is a powerful gesture of love and consideration for the well-being of everyone on the road.

Let us celebrate this Christmas with the spirit of love, joy, and responsibility, cherishing the gift of life. Let's light up the roads with kindness, patience, and adherence to traffic rules. May the warmth of the season extend to every journey, making our highways and byways safer for all.

This Christmas, let’s make memories that last a lifetime, marked not only by joy and laughter but by a commitment to keeping our roads merry and bright.

May your Christmas be filled with warmth, laughter, and the company of those you hold dear. Wishing you a safe and joyous holiday season, from the LTA Family and Board of Directors! Merry Christmas and a Happy 2024.