In recent years, road safety figures have not decreased and remain far too high. So, the Country and the State are organizing a two-day seminar next week to find new avenues to improve road safety.
During the night from Friday to Saturday in Raiatea, a 41-year-old man lost his life while riding his scooter. This tragedy brings to 29 the number of people killed on the roads of Fenua. In 2023, 35 people died in an accident, that’s almost 3 people per month and above all it’s 3 times more than in mainland France.
« You need to stop drinking while driving » exclaims this young person interviewed near the Papeete market. The reasons are known to everyone. Drunk driving is responsible for 75% of fatal accidents, which occur more often at night, at excessive speeds and on two-wheelers. In 2023, 63,000 alcohol screenings while driving were carried out, 1,662 offenses were noted. Thus, 1 in 40 people are drunk while driving or handling their vehicle. Driving license offenses also remain well above metropolitan averages.
More frequent road checks highlight bad behavior such as driving without a driving license or under the influence of illicit substances. Especially since the police and gendarmes position themselves in strategic places and times. But, despite the increased presence of law enforcement on the sides of the roads and despite awareness campaigns (Television, radio, social networks, schools), the number of accidents and bad behavior on the road remains far too high. .
When asked about this, Polynesians are aware of these bad behaviors. “ We need more interventions by the gendarmerie in schools, particularly regarding scooters, to protect our young people. » explains a passerby. But, ” it’s not that simple » according to Nino Bonis, president of Road Prevention. “ From 2000 to 2012, we implemented road safety education in schools, there were courses for offenders, it worked, but today, we have to find something else. »
From 2000 to 2012, the measures taken made it possible to reduce the figures by 2. But in recent years, the figures have no longer fallen and remain far too high. “ Now we have to explore new avenues to do better, we will find things. » explains Nino Bonis. Next week, at the initiative of the Country and the State, two days will be devoted to reflections and exchanges between all the stakeholders concerned to identify avenues for progress and levers to improve road safety in French Polynesia. “ Why not make the driver aware of the risks during their training, for example? » explains the president of Road Prevention. A points license or even night buses are also possible solutions to improve road safety.
What are some specific examples of innovative solutions being considered to improve road safety in French Polynesia, and how do these address the unique challenges faced by the region?
## World Today News: Road Safety in French Polynesia – A Roundtable Discussion
**Introduction**
Welcome to World Today News. Today, we’re addressing the pressing issue of road safety in French Polynesia, a topic brought to the forefront by the tragic accident that claimed a life in Raiatea last weekend. Joining us are two esteemed guests: **Nino Bonis, President of Road Prevention**, and **[Name of Local Resident/Community Leader]**, who offers a firsthand perspective on the challenges and potential solutions.
**Section 1: The Alarming Reality**
* Mr. Bonis, the article paints a concerning picture of road safety in French Polynesia. Could you elaborate on the key statistics and the factors contributing to this alarming trend?
* [Local Resident/Community Leader], how would you characterize the prevailing attitude towards road safety in your community? Have you personally witnessed behaviors that raise concerns?
**Section 2: Examining the Root Causes**
* The article highlights alcohol consumption as a major contributor to fatal accidents. What other factors might be at play, and how intertwined are these issues?
* Mr. Bonis, you mentioned that past efforts to curb accidents through school-based education yielded some success. Why haven’t these efforts been sufficient in the long run?
* What role does infrastructure and road design play in road safety, and are there specific areas in French Polynesia that require attention in this regard?
**Section 3: Exploring Innovative Solutions**
* The upcoming seminar aims to find “new avenues” for improvement. Mr. Bonis, what are some of the innovative ideas being considered, and what makes these approaches potentially effective?
* [Local Resident/Community Leader], what measures do you think would resonate most strongly with your community? How can we encourage responsible behavior and create a culture of safety?
* Should the focus be on stricter enforcement and penalties, or are there alternative approaches, such as education, awareness campaigns, or even technological interventions, that deserve greater consideration?
**Section 4: Looking Ahead – A Shared Responsibility**
* Mr. Bonis, how optimistic are you about the potential for significant progress in the near future? What steps can be taken to ensure that the upcoming seminar translates into tangible improvements?
* [Local Resident/Community Leader], what message do you have for the public, both drivers and pedestrians, about their individual responsibility in making French Polynesian roads safer?
**Conclusion**
The issue of road safety is undoubtedly complex and requires a multifaceted approach. We thank our guests, Mr. Nino Bonis and [Name of Local Resident/Community Leader], for providing valuable insights into this critical matter. We hope this discussion has shed light on the challenges and sparked continued conversations about finding effective solutions that will ultimately save lives.
