WILLEMSTAD - The MAN-PIN party cannot accept the prevailing situation of individuals driving on our roads without any proper documentation such as insurance, taxes, and a driver's license. MAN-PIN notes that many law-abiding citizens find themselves in trouble when involved in accidents with irresponsible motorists.
Collaborator of the MAN party, Eugene Cleopa, in this context emphasizes that the introduction of new license plates will undoubtedly make police control against these illegal practices in traffic more efficient and straightforward. It also helps in ensuring that vehicles without insurance or a driver's license do not take to the roads.
If we do not enforce compliance with the law and regulations (such as paying insurance and displaying the correct license plate), it can lead to aggression and confrontation in the event of accidents. "Motorists without their documents in order cause a lot of problems themselves. Driving a car without paying taxes (license plate number) is a problem because there is no certainty that the number affixed to the car is legal or stolen."
Driving a car without insurance also creates significant issues, especially in the event of any accidents, Cleopa states. "Those who are at fault end up with expenses to fix their cars, while the one who was hit might find out that the other party involved has nothing in order, meaning neither insurance nor taxes have been paid."
According to Cleopa, it can even happen that the victim of a traffic accident still has outstanding debts on their car and must either pay from their pocket to repair their car or claim from their insurance, resulting in an increase in their insurance premium the following year. "Such situations can cause emotions to run high and lead to heated discussions that can escalate into physical aggression."
MAN-PIN also observes that most of the time, motorists involved in an accident who flee the scene often turn out to be those who haven't registered their cars, don't have insurance, and haven't paid taxes either. "Many times, it turns out that even fake license plates or plates belonging to another car are affixed to their vehicle, making it difficult to hold them accountable for what happened."
MAN-PIN believes that if we want an orderly country, we must address this abuse now. People should not be left feeling helpless and correct, becoming victims of others' incorrect behavior. "That's why MAN/PIN believes that now is the time to regulate new license plates with proof of insurance connected to a digital system accessible to both civil registry (Kranshi) and the police. This can remedy the disorderly situation currently prevailing."
Finally, Cleopa mentions that there is a large group of foreigners who chose to come and live in Curaçao and have adopted the habit of driving without complying with traffic laws. "Perhaps this was also happening in the past, but not on the large scale that is occurring now. The current situation is alarming."
Those who do not have their affairs in order act with impunity, disregarding traffic rules, and causing harm to others, Cleopa believes. "This state of disorder cannot continue! MAN/PIN advocates for all relevant authorities to sit together and think of a solution to this serious problem in 2024, aiming to restore order in our motorized traffic."