In view of the worrying situation on our roads in recent weeks, as a parliamentarian I want to make a strong call to the entire community of Aruba. With a total of 11 traffic fatalities projected for 2025 and already 3 fatalities this year, the situation on our roads is becoming a crisis that requires our attention and certainly demands an immediate change in our behavior.
Recently, the Minister of Justice appeared in Parliament, and according to official figures, the number of “hit and run” cases has seen a drastic increase in recent years:
- 2020: 559 cases
- 2021: 1000 cases
- 2022: 757 cases
- 2023: 902 cases
- 2024: 1093 cases
- 2025: Preliminary figures indicate that this year will surpass 2024.
These numbers specifically reflect hit-and-run incidents at the end and beginning of the year that led to fatalities. This information is not just a statistic; it concerns lost lives, grieving families, and sorrow for our society. These figures confirm a crisis of morals and responsibility on our roads. I must express my concern because these numbers indicate an alarming and unacceptable trend in our traffic.
Control Is Necessary, But Awareness Is Key
Looking at traffic realities, incidents, and the Carnival season, the Police Department has intensified preventive controls. The results of the recent police checks (KPA) in Oranjestad have drawn attention. In just two nights, more than 150 fines were issued for violations such as speeding, lack of safety measures, and missing documents.
The fact that the police had to issue so many fines in one night is an indication that many of us are not taking the rules seriously. Police controls will continue and are essential, but in my opinion, we cannot have a police officer behind every car. Safety must begin in the heart and consciousness of every driver.
Ensuring Traffic Safety Is Everyone’s Responsibility
Achieving traffic safety requires us to change our mindset:
- If you drink, don’t drive!
- If you are going out to drink, fix a designated driver or call a friend!
- Put your phone aside while driving
- Keep to the maximum speed limit on the road
- And comply with all other traffic rules
Following the rules costs us nothing, but the value is priceless: it can save lives!
A Call for Unity and Responsibility
In conclusion, I ask that we unite as a people. We must stop the wave of negativity and tragedy. Live with more respect for others on the road. Aruba is too small for us to keep losing lives due to reckless actions. I make a call to every mayor, every youth, and every citizen: let’s unite for safer traffic. Don’t be part of this negative statistic. Let’s make Aruba an island where we take care of each other on the roads.