Constable J Wright (left), Representative of the Police Traffic Department, gives a demonstration on the use of the Traffic Radar Gun Police to Duane Ellis (center), General Manager of the Jamaica Automobile Association (JAA) and Garfield Rattray, JAA member. All were in attendance at the JAA Auto Clinic which was held under the theme “Road to Safe Families” on Saturday, March 10, 2012 at the JAA’s Central Avenue Headquarters and treated members to complimentary car washes, detailing, vehicle checks and other car care services.
Representatives from the Traffic Department of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) shared vital road safety information with members of the Jamaica Automobile Association (JAA) and their families, at an Auto Clinic, under the theme, “Road to Safe Families,” held at the JAA Central Avenue headquarters in Swallowfield, recently (March 10).
Duane Ellis, JAA General Manager, said the Department was one of several organisations invited to participate in the first of the series of quarterly Auto Clinics to be mounted by the JAA in 2012. The Clinics provide members with information about safe driving practices.
The Traffic Specialists demonstrated the use of the traffic radar gun, the handheld breathalyzer, and explained the safety features of different types of helmets that are recommended for use by motorcyclists.
“It was important for us to have the Traffic Department here to provide information about the dangers of speeding, drunk driving and the use of proper head gear, such as helmets for motorcycle riders,” Mr. Ellis said. “This is an essential element in our efforts to assist in decreasing the number of fatalities on our roads this year.”
JAA Members in attendance were also provided with complimentary car washes, vehicle checks and detailing.
“I put everything on hold to have my car washed, maintained and looking good,” JAA member Dorothy Sinclair said, while also acknowledging that she has benefited from the information on keeping her car well maintained.
“We have had positive feedback from members about our auto clinics, as they welcome the fact that they are accessing vital services, which they would normally pay for,” Mr. Ellis, revealed. “It is our way of enhancing service to members, because many of them only see us in action during an emergency… as a roadside assistance provider.”
And in keeping with the theme of the event, ten partners highlighted their products and services that supported various aspects of family life and road safety.
“We also use our auto clinics to inform our members about the services of our merchant partners who provide JAA members with products and services at discounted rates of up to 30%,” Mr. Ellis explained. At present more than 150 local merchants participate in the JAA’s internationally recognised Show Your Card & Save discount programme.
“The JAA will continue to provide value-added services to members through the quarterly Auto Clinics and the second staging of the annual Autofest Auto Fair in June. This event will have all the elements of our regular auto clinic, with added features to interest our members,” he affirmed.
