A graphic exhibit has been erected along Veterans Drive on St. Thomas to remind motorists to “fete with a plan” and not drive while impaired as they celebrate Carnival.
“The problem with drinking and driving is the mourning after,” says a sign mounted on a shipping container, atop which sits a wrecked vehicle.
The exhibit, at the William Hastes Park near the intersection with De Beltjen Road, was erected by the V.I. Office of Highway Safety to remind motorists about the potential risks when they are impaired by alcohol, drugs, a combination of both, or distracted by cellphone use, texting, eating, applying makeup, or travelling more than the speed limit, according to a press release announcing the initiative.
“The consequences can be life-changing and fatal,” it stated.
“Designating a sober driver this Carnival season and every day is partying with a plan,” the release states. “Traffic safety should be everyone’s priority. Just one drink might alter your plans. So, please consider the options before you decide to fete! Be safe, and remember, ‘If you Feel Different, You Drive Different.’ Fete with a Plan!”
If you are the designated driver, make sure you honor your pledge to yourself and your passengers to remain sober, the release states. “Stay hydrated with water and other non-alcoholic beverages. Support other designated drivers. Take the role of a designated driver seriously — the other drivers, passengers, and pedestrians on the roadways are relying on you,” it says.
Revelers who take part in J’ouvert on Thursday morning can take advantage of a free safe ride, courtesy of the V.I. Taxicab Commission, the V.I. Police Department and Bellows International, according to the Taxicab Commission.
Safe Ride Shuttles will be provided in front of the Alexander Farrelly Justice Complex on Thursday immediately following J’ouvert, traveling east and making stops along the Safari Bus route to include the areas of Raphune Hill, Fort Mylner, Tutu Park Mall, Smith Bay, Red Hook, Nazareth, Frydenhoj, Nadir, Bovoni, Bolongo, Frenchman’s Bay and Havensight. No vouchers are needed.
VITRAN announced that its St. Thomas fixed-route services will be temporarily suspended on Thursday until 12:50 p.m., or until the roads are cleared of the J’ouvert celebration. Otherwise, it will operate on a normal schedule during Carnival, including Paratransit services.
To learn more about the rules of the road in the U.S. Virgin Islands, including penalties for impaired driving, visit the V.I. Office of Highway Safety website.
Editor’s Note: This story has been corrected to reflect that Bellows International is one of the sponsors of the free shuttle initiative.
