The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda is urging motorists to exercise greater caution on the nation's roads ahead of the Easter holiday weekend, as traffic collision numbers continue to climb.

According to Antigua News Room, two road fatalities have already been recorded in 2026, with overall crash figures also rising compared to the same period last year.

Traffic data shows 637 collisions recorded so far this year, up from 621 during the corresponding period in 2025 — a trend authorities describe as concerning.

Sergeant Leonel of the Traffic Division attributed the increase to speeding and inattentive driving, warning that too many motorists are failing to observe basic road rules. "Drivers are not taking their time … they are not applying the rules and regulations of the road," he said, adding that such behaviour is directly contributing to the rise in crashes.

Sergeant Leonel also challenged the common assumption that young, inexperienced drivers bear the most responsibility. He noted that adults between the ages of 25 and 35 are frequently involved in collisions.

With higher-than-usual travel volumes expected over the long weekend, police are calling on all drivers to stay focused behind the wheel, eliminate distractions, and comply with traffic laws.

Authorities say enforcement efforts and public awareness campaigns will be intensified over the holiday period as part of a broader push to reverse the upward trend in road accidents.