Traffic safety campaign for Las Justas hits its stride

The safety campaign will continue throughout the week at different intersections in Mayagüez and nearby municipalities, with a wrecked vehicle and “Tico,” a banged-up character that represents the consequences of driving under the influence of alcohol.

By The Star Staff

The Traffic Safety Commission (CST by its initials in Spanish) intensified its prevention education campaign in the 2025 Inter-University Athletic League “Justas” on Tuesday with a focus on promoting responsibility behind the wheel and avoiding tragedies.

“We want to send a clear message to all young people and citizens who plan to attend the activities of the Games: road safety is everyone’s responsibility,” CST Executive Director José “Memo” González Mercado said in a written statement.

González Mercado led an educational outreach event at the intersections in front of the University of Mayagüez Campus, along with officials from the Traffic Bureau, prosecutors and municipal personnel. Preventive material was distributed to more than 2,500 drivers and the campaign “If You Are Going to Drink, Hand Over the Key” was promoted.

The campaign will continue throughout the week at different intersections in Mayagüez and nearby municipalities. As part of the efforts, a wrecked vehicle and “Tico,” a character with bruises that represents the consequences of driving under the influence of alcohol, are to be exhibited.

“We want everyone to enjoy themselves, but to do it safely,” González Mercado reiterated.

The CST urged attendees to plan their transportation, avoid mixing alcohol and driving, and to give up the key if they decide to drink.