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Police: Watch the Road This Christmas

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Traffic officials are on high alert this holiday season as crashes spike across the capital. With more parties, more shopping and more distractions, police say road safety has to come first.

Published

4 hours ago

December 13, 2025

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The holiday rush is packing the streets, and police say the roads are more dangerous than usual. ASP Lakeisha Sawyer says distracted driving, especially on the phone, is at the center of many crashes.

ASP Lakeisha Sawyer, Traffic Division, Royal Bahamas Police Force
“More traffic on the road due to person shopping, going to work, going to events, the traffic has rise and persons scared and accidents due to not paying attention. They’re on their phone and we do implore the public to put the phone down.”

ASP Lakeisha Sawyer, Traffic Division, Royal Bahamas Police Force
“There’s a very visible sign by E Street and Independence Drive. Watch the road, not your phone.”

Sawyer says drivers are running amber lights, ignoring signals and failing to buckle up children in the backseat.

And with work functions and parties every night, officers are bracing for another annual challenge: drinking and driving.

ASP Lakeisha Sawyer, Traffic Division, Royal Bahamas Police Force
“Persons they do drink above that limit and then they drive and God forbid they get in an accident and cause injury or death to somebody. So we don’t want you to drink and drive. Always have a designated driver or stay within your drink tolerance. What about protocols for large events? For large events, we would just implore the public. You can go in groups, you at your work function, you can go for a car. And if you have numerous events, just let the persons be a designated driver.”

Police are also warning drivers to look out for pedestrians, many of whom walk or ride at night without reflective gear.

And if you’re rushing from store to store, Chief Superintendent Sheria King says safety starts before you even enter the car.

Chief Superintendent Sheria King, Press Liaison, Royal Bahamas Police Force
“When you’re shopping, make certain that you hold your purse and your purchases your shopping bags close to you in crowded areas. When you return to the vehicle, make certain that you secure those items not in the backseat of the car where it’s visible, but in the trunk of the car as you return to your vehicle. Make certain that you are vigilant and remain vigilant as you shop. To make certain you know what is around you and your surroundings. Have your keys ready when you’re going to the vehicle. These simple things can make certain that you remain safe during this holiday season.”

Officers say increased patrols will continue through the new year as they work to reduce holiday road fatalities.

Sawyer says the message is not just about rules, but courtesy.

ASP Lakeisha Sawyer, Traffic Division, Royal Bahamas Police Force
“It’s going to be a very busy traffic season. We want you to be kind and courteous to the other road users. And as police officers, there’s a saying. But for us, we’ll say we don’t just live here. We drive here. So we do know what is out there. And we just want persons to be patient and you will get to where you need to be.”