The Ministry of Interior and Police announced guidelines for a new comprehensive initiative that seeks to improve motorcycle safety and reduce traffic fatalities. This comes in response to alarming statistics highlighting the role of motorcycles in both accidents and crime. Many similar measures have been announced in the past with minimal implementation.
The authorities have pledged to draft legislation for the helmet certification law and traffic training programs within the next six months, with the first awareness campaigns expected to launch in late 2025.
Announced at the First National Forum for Responsible Motorcycle Use, the proposals include a mandatory requirement for all new motorcycles sold in the Dominican Republic to come equipped with a certified protective helmet and proper registration from the Tax Agency (DGII).
The forum was organized by the National Institute of Traffic and Land Transport (Intrant). The new measures are proposed as a turning point in Dominican road safety. By combining education, enforcement, and technological advancements, the government aims to significantly reduce motorcycle accidents and create safer roads for all citizens.
The authorities emphasized the urgency of action. According to Minister of Interior and Police Faride Raful, motorcycles are involved in over 70% of traffic accidents and are frequently used in robberies, with cellular phones and motorcycles being the most stolen items.
Attorney General Yeni Berenice Reynoso backed these stats with more stark figures. Over 90% of stolen vehicles are motorcycles, which are also used in more than 73% of robberies. Furthermore, over 72.3% of traffic fatalities involve motorcycles.
The new government strategy proposals encompass several key elements:
Mandatory registration and identification: All motorcycles must be registered with the Tax Agency (DGII) and display visible plates compatible with video surveillance systems. The DGII, led by Luis Valdez, is designing a new plate system incorporating QR codes and additional safety data.
Helmet law enforcement: Authorities will strictly enforce helmet use, emphasizing that only certified helmets can prevent severe head trauma. Mario Lama, Director of the National Health Service (SNS), revealed that over 50% of motorcycle accident victims admitted to hospitals do not wear helmets, and those that do often use uncertified ones. Only helmets certified by the Dominican Republic’s National Institute of Standards and Certification (INDNAC) are to be used. Non-compliance could result in fines or vehicle immobilization.
Traffic safety courses: Authorities agreed to implement mandatory training programs for motorcyclists, emphasizing defensive driving techniques and traffic laws.
Stakeholder committee: Intrant led the initiative to establish a permanent committee comprising government agencies, motorcycle clubs, and private sector representatives. The group will oversee policy implementation and public awareness campaigns.
Infrastructure Improvements: Recommendations included expanding bike lanes, improving road signage, and installing speed bumps in high-risk areas.
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Diario Libre
Diario Libre
5 June 2025