Association for Public Policy Analysis & Management

Introduction:
The Johns Hopkins Center for Injury Research and Policy (JHCIRP) was asked by the National Road
Safety Council of Jamaica (NRSC) to conduct a gap analysis and produce recommendations for
programming, policy, and/or research to reduce traffic-related crashes, deaths, and injuries in Jamaica.
The gap analysis utilized three methods: a literature review to document the epidemiology of road traffic
injuries in Jamaica; a review of Jamaica’s existing data sources relevant to road traffic crashes and the
initiatives being undertaken by NRSC; and a site visit to conduct stakeholder interviews. Gaps and
priorities were determined by synthesizing and discussing the results of these activities with the NRSC
leadership. Best practice recommendations to address these priorities were culled from the research
literature and international organizations. Throughout the process, the research team maintained regular
communication with NRSC leadership through email and calls via Skype.

Methods:
The gap analysis utilized three methods: a literature review to document the epidemiology of road traffic
injuries in Jamaica; a review of Jamaica’s existing data sources relevant to road traffic crashes and the
initiatives being undertaken by NRSC; and a site visit to conduct stakeholder interviews. Gaps and
priorities were determined by synthesizing and discussing the results of these activities with the NRSC
leadership. Best practice recommendations to address these priorities were culled from the research
literature and international organizations. Throughout the process, the research team maintained regular
communication with NRSC leadership through email and calls via Skype.

Results:
Six overarching priorities consistent with the Safe Systems approach were identified by the research
team and NRSC: 1) Structural (Enforcement and Engineering), 2) Cultural/Educational,
3) Vehicle Accessibility, 4) Data, 5) Emergency Response, 6) Electronic Surveillance. Best practice
recommendations to address these priorities were culled from the research literature and international
organizations. A total of 24 best practice recommendations were identified to address all of the priorities

Conclusion:
Jamaica’s new road safety act and stakeholder interest in a safe systems approach bode well for road
safety in Jamaica over the next decade. Although the recommendations are intended to help shape future
transportation safety work, the priorities and timeline for action are dependent on many factors,
including stakeholder engagement and available resources.