P.J. Released After Crash Scare

Former Prime Minister of Jamaica and President of the People's National Party, P.J. Patterson, was discharged from the hospital last week after he met in an accident and sustained injuries when he experienced a car mishap. He sustained injuries to his hip and knees on October 14 at approximately 7:45 p.m.

It was alleged that the accident happened at his residence in Norbook, St. Andrew. He was rushed to the hospital, where he underwent a surgical operation at the Tony Thwaites Wing of the University Hospital of the West Indies in Mona.

There were no further reports as to what caused the accident and if anyone else was involved. Rumours though are saying that he was driving alone and maybe he had sent home his security detail so that he could go on a late-night run. He started and drove the vehicle but then there was a malfunction leading to him crashing into a wall.

Well, Patterson who is 84, would understand the guidelines regarding the safety and security of Government officials, even after retirement. Driving alone at that age is not safe; not informing the necessary relatives or security of their whereabouts and plans can lead to slow response time, which can cause help not to reach them before it’s too late.

Thankfully, the accident occurred on his premises and he was able to receive immediate assistance and medical treatment.

Patterson was discharged last week and a statement from one of his aides, Alston Stewart said the former prime minister is now resting at home. He was discharged last week to fully recuperate under the supervision of his medical team.

The Jamaica Gleaner reported that he will now be under a strict visitor policy to ensure that his condition is not compromised. After the damage has been done, there is a need to prevent any further mishaps to happen to the longest-serving prime minister, who was in office from 1992 – 2005. Afterwards, he retired from politics and went on to launch his book ‘My Political Journey’ in December last year.

Former Prime Minister of Jamaica, P.J. Patterson's book 'My Political Journey'

Patterson sent his appreciation to the staff at the hospital who assisted with his surgery and well-being as well as to the well-wishers who sent him words of encouragement and support.

Looking back at this, the former prime minister needs to ensure that he thinks before he goes behind another steering wheel, as this highlighted some issues and concerns regarding his physical and mental health. Was he on drugs? Was he sleepwalking? Was he alone? Or was it really a malfunction? We will never really know unless we probe further but just like similar potential government happenings, this was brushed aside.

Anyways, Patterson 'drive good'.