WILLEMSTAD - Reckless driving behaviors, such as failing to yield and speeding, are mirrored in traffic fatality statistics, says Police Commissioner Raymond Ellis. The police recorded 26 traffic-related deaths in 2022, compared to 15 fatal accidents in 2023. Ellis noted that recent reductions in speeding and running red lights have contributed to improved road safety.
Uninsured Drivers Pose Financial Risks
However, Ellis highlighted a troubling trend: many recent accidents involved drivers who were uninsured. Victims of these incidents are often left to cover significant repair costs themselves, leading to financial strain.
In response, the government has ramped up enforcement efforts, conducting stricter checks on vehicle documentation to ensure compliance.
Restoring Order on the Roads
Jules Ilario, a member of the Traffic Management Team at the Curaçao Police Force, stressed the importance of restoring order to the island’s roads. Both Ellis and Ilario discussed these concerns during the government podcast Ki Bo Ke Men.
The discussions underscored the need for continued vigilance and stricter enforcement to address reckless driving behaviors and the financial consequences of uninsured accidents.