GEORGETOWN, GUYANA — Mothers. Fathers. Sons. Daughters. The people behind the rising road death toll in Guyana are more than statistics—they were part of families, workplaces, and neighbourhoods now left to pick up the pieces.
The Ministry of Home Affairs is warning that too many lives are being cut short on Guyana’s roads, with deadly accidents increasing by 17 percent in the first half of 2025. From January 1 to June 14, 54 fatal crashes were recorded, compared to 46 in the same period last year. Fifty-eight people have died so far—two more than in 2024.
“These are not just data points. Behind each number is a family that didn’t get to say goodbye,” the Ministry said. “This should not be normal.”
Speeding Still the Deadliest Mistake
Most of the deaths were caused by speeding, which led to 48 of the 54 fatal accidents. Other crashes were linked to drivers not paying attention or pedestrians making risky decisions.
While some types of crashes have gone down—like serious and minor accidents—the increase in lives lost overshadows those improvements. The roads may seem safer on the surface, but the reality is that more families are grieving this year.
Motorcyclists Paying the Highest Price
Motorcyclists are now the most at-risk group, accounting for 30 of this year’s road deaths, up from 20 last year. In 23 of those cases, the riders weren’t wearing helmets.
The numbers are even more troubling for passengers on motorcycles. Seven pillion riders have died so far in 2025—up from just one last year. None were wearing helmets.
“The helmet you leave behind could be the one that saves your life,” the Ministry urged.
Some Good News, but Not Enough
There were a few signs of hope. Child deaths fell by 67 percent, with just one child fatality this year compared to three last year. Pedestrian deaths also dropped from 16 to nine.
Still, in at least four pedestrian deaths, distraction played a role. In two cases, victims were hit while crossing into the path of moving vehicles. These were preventable moments—split-second decisions with permanent consequences.
Inside cars, seat belts were often the missing link between survival and death. Eight passengers and seven drivers died in crashes, most of whom were not wearing seat belts. There were no reported deaths among minibus passengers, or among those travelling in lorries or vans.
“Do the Right Thing” Isn’t Just a Slogan
The Ministry is doubling down on its “Do the Right Thing” campaign. It’s more than a tagline—it’s a call to action for every Guyanese who gets behind the wheel, on a bike, or steps onto a crossing.
“Wearing a helmet or seat belt. Slowing down. Staying alert. These are small actions that save lives,” the Ministry said. “We all have a role to play.”
