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Photo Caption: Feyonia Myrie (left), communications officer demonstrates to a student a Dinthill Technical High School how to wear a helmet.

The auditorium at Dinthill Technical High School in Linstead, St Catherine, was abuzz with activity as grade 10 students gathered for an interactive road safety presentation, spearheaded by the National Helmet Wearing Coalition (NHWC), a project implemented by the JN Foundation and the National Road Safety Council, and funded by the FIA Foundation

The focus of the session was the importance of wearing helmets, an often overlooked yet critical aspect of road safety.

A Powerful Road Safety Message

Sydoney Preddie, Project Manager for the NHWC, led the presentation with a mix of passion and urgency. Through charts, videos, and real-life statistics, she highlighted the devastating consequences of neglecting helmet use.

“We aim to reach young people at this crucial stage of their development to instill a culture of safety,” she explained after her presentation. “By helping them understand the importance of wearing helmets and making responsible decisions on the road, we hope these habits will carry over when they become motorists, ultimately contributing to fewer accidents and saving lives.”

Students Share Their Takeaways

For Grade 10 student, Kechani Thompson, the session was both engaging and informative. “It was educational,” she shared. “I learned that helmets can expire and how many people die each year from not wearing them.” Although she doesn’t ride bikes, the presentation had an impact on her. “In Jamaica, a lot of people don’t wear helmets when they ride bikes,” she observed.

Her classmate Michele found the session equally eye-opening. “I learned that you don’t just ride bikes—you drive them,” she said, her interest piqued at the prospect of getting her driver’s licence in the future.

For Trishana Francis, however, the session resonated on a deeper level. Feeling uplifted after a challenging morning, she revealed, “I was feeling down, but going in there and coming out, I felt kind of happy. It lifted my spirits.”

Her personal connection to the topic made it even more meaningful. Her older brother, an avid biker, did not own a helmet. Her wish to provide him with a helmet was later fulfilled by the Coalition, a gesture that left her both relieved and happy.

Dinthill’s Commitment to Road Safety

The initiative aligns seamlessly with Dinthill Technical High School’s commitment to promoting road safety. Principal Anthony Garwood underscored the school’s proactive approach, which includes driver education as part of the curriculum.

“We’re one of the schools that do driver education. It came out of a concern about how the students respond on the road, how they take transportation and what transportation to take,” he explained.

Mr Garwood commended the students for their positive reception of the session, particularly the interactive elements. “The initiative by the JN Foundation is a great addition to what we’re already doing,” he said.

Collaborating partners, including the Island Traffic Authority (ITA) and the HEART Trust NSTA, also emphasised the importance of reaching young people early. Dontae Matthews, ITA’s Manager for Corporate Communications and Public Relations, noted, “We want to ensure that our motorcyclists, prospective and current, wear helmets. We also realise that our young people account for a lot of our fatalities, so we have to get to them at an early age.”

Nearly 240 upper school students were in attendance for the helmet safety presentation and the wider school community of almost 1,000 were engaged at the booths during the day’s activities.

Photo Caption: Members of the National Helmet Wearing Coalition take a group photo. From left to right are Omar Green, Chrisopher Atkinson, Rodney Forbes, Paula Anna Porter Jones, Kevon Clayton and Yosef Bent.

Motorcyclists and members of the National Helmet Wearing Coalition (NHWC) are underscoring the importance of wearing a helmet when riding or travelling as a pillion. They also highlighted essential safety practices for riders and motorists.

The advice was provided as part of activities to observe World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims, commemorated on November 17, 2024. Motorcyclists formed a convoy on the day, riding from Ferry, St Catherine to a well-known crash hot spot across from the Mandeville Regional Hospital in Manchester.

The event was organised by the NHWC, an initiative managed by the JN Foundation in collaboration with the National Road Safety Council and funded by the FIA Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the world governing body for motorsport.

Well-known media personality, Paula Ann Porter Jones, who is a member of the NHWC and a motorcyclist for over 10 years, stressed the importance of constant vigilance and awareness on the road. “It’s easy to forget what’s happening around you and think it’s just you, the machine, and the road,” she said. “But my thought is always, it’s not me alone.”

She emphasised that safety goes beyond personal control of the vehicle. “Safety involves not just what I’m doing on the motorcycle, but looking around for the dog, the cat, the cow, or the child running into the road,” she explained. “It also means being aware of car drivers who glance in their rearview mirrors but don’t see motorcyclists.”

Mrs Porter Jones urged riders to adopt a defensive mindset, effectively driving for everyone and everything on the road. This heightened awareness, she noted, is key to mitigating many potential hazards. “If you are that aware and that careful, you ride, you enjoy your machine, but you also avoid many of the things that could go wrong,” she advised.

Her safety message aligns with the goals of the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims, a time to reflect on lives lost and promote safer road behaviours. “If reflecting on our habits can prevent future tragedies, then those lives lost will not have been in vain,” Mrs Porter Jones added.

Otherexperienced riders, including Omar Green, Rodney Forbes, and Kevon Clayton, stressed the importance of prioritising safety through the wearing of proper gear, training, and responsible habits.

“All riders should invest in proper protective gear before even buying a bike,” said Kevon Clayton, a member of the Upshifterz Motorcycle Club. “Buy a certified helmet approved by authorities like DOT or Snell, a padded jacket, and gloves. Your life is worth far more than your bike.”

Rodney Forbes, a rider for three years, echoed this sentiment, emphasising that while bikes and gear can be replaced, “you can’t replace your body parts or your life.”

Meanwhile Mr Green, a rider with eight years of experience, highlighted the value of professional training and mentorship. “I was fortunate to learn from mature, accomplished riders who guided me on road principles and safety. Additionally, I recommend formal motorcycle courses, like the Back-to-Basics course in Kingston, to refine skills and build confidence.”

Mr Green also encouraged new riders to surround themselves with responsible individuals who prioritise safety and the joy of riding responsibly.

All riders agreed on the importance of a defensive approach to riding. “You have to drive not just for yourself but for others on the road,” said Mr Green. “Watch out for pedestrians, animals, and inattentive drivers who might not see a motorcyclist.”

Mr Clayton, who has survived multiple accidents, credited his helmet for saving his life. “I cannot overstate how essential it is to wear proper safety gear every time you ride.”

The riders also emphasised their commitment to educating younger motorcyclists. “Many young riders are influenced by bad role models who focus on hype and excitement, which isn’t always safe,” said Mr Clayton. “We want to shift that narrative by promoting helmet use, safe riding practices, and respect for the road.”

The ride out event did not only honour traffic victims but also reinforced the collective responsibility of all riders to advocate for safety and reduce road traffic fatalities. As Mr Forbes remarked, “Riding responsibly is not just about protecting yourself—it’s about fostering a culture where safety is the norm, not the exception.”

The NHWC partnered with the Jamaica Constabulary Force, which has been demonstrating its support for motorcycle safety through collaborative efforts to promote helmet safety education and helmet distribution.

Photo Caption: Dr Kevin Blake (left), Commissioner of Police gets ready to distribute helmets in Mandeville, Manchester following a ‘ride out’ from Ferry, St Catherine to mark World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims, recently. Looking on is Claudine Allen, general manager of the JN Foundation.

General Manager of the JN Foundation, Claudine Allen, is emphasising the urgent need for collective action to address motorcycle-related road fatalities.

She made the poignant statement while addressing motorcyclists and patrons who converged in Mandeville, Manchester, recently following a ‘ride out’ from Ferry, St Catherine to mark World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims under the global theme, Remember, Support and Act.

The event was organised by the National Helmet Wearing Coalition (NHWC), an initiative being implemented by the JN Foundation in collaboration with the National Road Safety Council and funded by the FIA Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the world governing body for motorsport. The NHWC teamed up with the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) who demonstrated their support towards motorcycle safety through their collaborative efforts to promote helmet safety education and supported the coalition’s helmet distribution.

Ms Allen highlighted the alarming statistics of motorcycle-related deaths, noting that young Jamaican men aged 19 to 29 are the most affected demographic. “We are losing them at an alarming rate to motorcycle crashes,” she stated, emphasising the ripple effects on families, communities, and the nation’s workforce. 

Manchester, historically one of the parishes with high motorcycle fatalities, has seen significant progress in reducing such incidents, but Ms Allen reminded the gathering that “one fatality is one too many.” 

She attributed many road crashes to poor decision-making, such as speeding, failing to wear helmets, and neglecting vehicle maintenance. “Road crashes are rarely accidental,” Miss Allen noted. “They result from decisions—conscious or subconscious—that put lives at risk.” 

Ms Allen also detailed the work of the National Helmet Wearing Coalition, stressing the importance of accessible, certified helmets and inclusive training for motorcycle riders. “We have to create an environment that ensures compliance with safety standards, from legislation to infrastructure and education,” she said. 

Dr Kevin Blake, Commissioner of Police, who led the convoy of just over 50 bikers from Ferry, St Catherine to Manchester at a crash hotspot across from the Mandeville Regional Hospital, noted the grim reality of road traffic fatalities despite some progress.

“While we’ve seen a slight 13 per cent reduction in road deaths compared to last year, the numbers are still alarmingly high, with 320 lives lost so far this year,” he said.  Dr Blake emphasised that more than 30 per cent of road fatalities involve motorcycles, with about 90 per cent of those victims not wearing helmets.

Custos of Manchester, Lt Col Garfield Green, echoed the sentiment, urging motorcyclists to prioritise safety. “Every crash is one too many. Helmets save lives, not just for the rider but for families and communities,” he stated.

The event also included the distribution of certified helmets and educational sessions on safe riding practices.

Lt Col  Custos Green said that while Manchester recorded lower motorcycle crash rates since the year started, there have been dangerous trends such as drag racing and stunt driving on its major roads, often resulting in crashes. He called for motorcyclists to avoid these high-risk behaviours and adhere to traffic laws.

The gathering also honoured the memory of those who have died in road crashes, offering support to bereaved families. “Pause to remember those who have gone. Support those who are still here. And act to educate and encourage safety so we can bring fatalities down to zero,” Ms Allen encouraged persons.   

The National Helmet Wearing Coalition is a public-private partnership comprising the JN Foundation, which is coordinating the project, the National Road Safety Council, the Government, as well as the police, transportation associations, advocacy groups, academia, parish development committees and international organisations. The initiative is targeted at raising awareness about motorcycle helmet safety and promoting the use of certified helmets through regulation and behaviour change.

A near-death experience in a motorcycle crash underscored the importance of helmet wearing for Corporal Selvin Smith some eight years ago.

The incident, in which he narrowly avoided severe injuries- thanks to his helmet- took place close to the 100 Man Police Station in Portmore, St Catherine, in 2016.

“At the end of the day, the helmet is the very best way to go,” Corporal Smith commended the headgear, urging motorcyclists, especially young men, to prioritise their safety over ‘style’.

Corporal Smith, who has been riding motorcycles for more than 12 years, outlined that wearing a helmet is an integral part of his routine, in addition to wearing gloves.

“Once I’m going to go on the motorcycle, that becomes a part of the outfit. My helmet and my gloves are things I almost can’t ride without. They mean so much to me,” he explained.

However, that was not his attitude during his early days as a rider. The Corporal admitted that he briefly avoided wearing a helmet.

“It was about the flair of being seen on my motorcycle,” he said, noting that younger riders often associate riding without a helmet with masculinity and ego. However, his perspective changed quickly when he realised the immense risks involved.

Corporal Smith stressed that the benefits of helmet use far outweigh any desire for recognition or to follow a trend. “First and foremost, there is the protection of life,” he said. Even at low speeds, a fall can lead to life-threatening head injuries. He highlighted that certified helmets not only protect riders from impact but also protect the body from coming into contact with debris, wind, and rain, which can obscure vision and increase the chances of a crash.

“Even a drop of rain feels like being struck by a screwdriver when riding,” he said, recalling his own experiences on the road.

As a corporal in the Jamaica Constabulary Force with 23 years of service, Corporal Smith currently trains and educates fellow officers. For the past 17 years, he has taught police procedures, law, and physical training at the National Police College of Jamaica, where he currently serves as a motorcycle instructor. He trains both beginner riders and quick responders, the latter being a specialised team that handles advanced tactical operations. It involves, among other things, using motorcycles in high-risk situations.

Corporal Smith is dedicated to sharing his message and hopes to change the mindset of younger riders and has committed to join the National Helmet Wearing Coalition to re-enforce the message of helmet wearing. Through his role as an instructor, he continues to advocate for helmet use, emphasising that it is the most effective way to protect the lives of motorcyclists.

“We are way more fragile than we think we are,” he underscored.

Sydoney Preddie, project manager for road safety and road users at the JN Foundation, affirmed the Corporal’s point of view, pointing out that motorcycle crashes are likely to result in head injuries, as the head may come into direct contact with hard objects during impact.  

“Head injuries can cause serious, long-lasting effects that may not be fully reversible,” she quipped. “The only effective approach to dealing with head injury is prevention- not letting the injury occur in the first place. It’s all a consequence of an unprotected skull that cannot withstand the shock. The protective helmet is designed to minimise the risk of all kinds of head injuries,” she said.

She noted that the National Helmet Wearing Coalition is preparing to roll out specific activities shortly, targeting the negative attitudes and behaviours towards helmet wearing among motorcyclists in Jamaica. The activities are being administered by the JN Foundation in collaboration with the National Road Safety Council.

“Addressing the negative attitudes and behaviours are going to be critical to curbing the current spate of injuries and fatalities we are experiencing nationally due to motorcycle crashes,” she said, pointing out that the activities to be implemented are backed by pre-existing and baseline research conducted by the Coalition. “The consequences of road crashes impact various aspects of our social and economic development, therefore, reducing them to minimal levels is a priority.”      

Photo Caption: Omar Wright, Lead, Environment and Community Development, JN Foundation

The JN Foundation has opened applications for its Motorcycle Helmet Safety Photo Advocacy and Visual Arts Competition, which aims to empower young Jamaicans to use photography and visual arts as tools for promoting safer road practices, with a focus on advocating for helmet use among motorcyclists and pedal cyclists.

Omar Wright, Lead, Environment and Community Development, JN Foundation, said the competition, builds on the original JN Resolution Project, retaining the core mission of that project to empower youth to use photography as a powerful medium for advocacy. It’s the second initiative by the Foundation to build on the Resolution Project, following last year’s Jamaica 60 Photo Advocacy Competition.

Winners of the Photo Advocacy and Visual Arts Competition will have the chance to win cash prizes valued at J$50,000 and J$150,000.

“This year, participants will be tasked with capturing images that highlight the importance of helmet use on Jamaica’s roads, advocating for safer practices, and raising awareness about road safety,” he explained.

He said the inclusion of visual arts in this year’s competition will challenge younger participants to create artistic helmet designs. This component aims to engage children, who are among the most vulnerable road users, by encouraging creative expressions around safety.

The competition will focus on training and equipping students from secondary, tertiary, vocational and skills training institutions across the island with the technical skills to capture images that inspire safer road usage. Secondary school participants will be organised into teams, although their individual submissions will be judged. Participants enrolled in schools at the tertiary level or who are enrolled in vocational or other skills training institution will participant as individuals. Workshops will provide students with training in photography techniques, advocacy, education on road safety, and their competition assignments.

All participants will be encouraged to submit their entries digitally. Mr Wright said the goal is to create a collection of 20 to 30 impactful images that can be used in exhibits, publications, and road safety campaigns.

Like the last initiative, a panel of assessors, including master photographers, Radcliffe ‘Ruddy’ Roye and Stuart Reeves and representatives from the National Helmet Wearing Coalition (NHWC) and the JN Foundation, will evaluate the submissions. The top entries will be selected through a preliminary review process, with winners announced at a special awards ceremony in January 2025.

For the visual art component, Mr Wright said students ages 8 to 12 will produce creative art designs for motorcycle helmets. Parents are invited to assist with the application process, but the artwork must be completed solely by the child. A separate panel, including representatives from the JN Foundation and NHWC, will judge the designs, with winners also recognised at the awards ceremony.

Through this initiative, Mr Wright informed that the JN foundation Photo-Advocacy Project hopes to empower 50 to 100 advocates, equipped with knowledge about Jamaican road users and the actions needed to reduce crashes and fatalities.

“By targeting younger audiences and encouraging the use of visual media, the project seeks to fuel road safety awareness across the country, particularly among those aged 16-29, who represent a significant portion of Jamaica’s road users who are dying from motorcycle fatalities,” he explained.

Applications are open to Jamaican nationals enrolled in secondary, tertiary, vocational and skills training institutions for the photo-advocacy component and primary and preparatory schools only for the visual arts competition. Persons can submit their application via the JN Foundation website at jnfoundation.com. The deadline for submissions to the photo-advocacy competition is October 10, 2024, and for the visual arts competition, October 15, 2024.