Prime Minister Gaston Browne says young cyclist Tahje Browne is fortunate to have survived a traffic accident that could have had fatal consequences, as he renewed calls for motorists to slow down and exercise greater caution on the nation’s roads.

Speaking on the Browne and Browne radio programme on Saturday, the Prime Minister said the cyclist, whom he described as the country’s top rider, was struck by a vehicle earlier in the day. He said the circumstances of the crash underscored the dangers posed by reckless driving and excessive speed.

“Our best cyclist got hit by a vehicle this morning,” Browne said, adding that the incident could easily have resulted in a loss of life. He noted that the cyclist was “lucky to be alive” given the manner in which the vehicle reportedly spun out of control.

The Prime Minister said he was relieved by reports indicating that Tahje’s injuries were not considered life-threatening.

Browne also criticized the motorist involved for allegedly leaving the scene of the collision, calling the action unfortunate and urging the individual to report to law enforcement authorities.

Using the incident as a broader road safety warning, Browne appealed to drivers to be more responsible behind the wheel and specifically cautioned operators of Toyota Vitz vehicles against speeding.

He said he had long heard concerns about the vehicles becoming unstable at high speeds and noted that some people avoid riding in them for that reason. Browne urged Vitz drivers to understand the limitations of the vehicles and avoid driving beyond safe operating conditions.

“No one should be speeding on our roads and putting people’s lives at risk,” Browne said as he called on motorists to drive cautiously.

The accident has sparked concern within the sporting community, with supporters and fellow athletes expressing hope for Tahje Browne’s recovery.

The circumstances surrounding the crash remain under investigation.