ORANJESTAD (AAN):
Aruba needs stronger legal enforcement to significantly reduce the number of traffic incidents caused by drinking and driving, according to Rubiella Toppenberg of the Foundation Anti Drug Aruba (FADA).
In a recent interview with DIARIO, Toppenberg stated that when laws are reinforced and strictly applied, cases of driving under the influence of alcohol decrease noticeably. She emphasized that stronger legislation and accountability could have a major impact on improving road safety on the island.
Toppenberg also highlighted the important role that bars and restaurants play in preventing drunk driving. She explained that in the past, FADA visited bars and restaurants across Aruba to distribute and display awareness posters promoting the message “Don’t Drink and Drive.” However, these efforts did not produce lasting results, as follow-up inspections often revealed that the posters had been removed after only a short time.
According to Toppenberg, while many bar and restaurant owners show a willingness to cooperate, they are also concerned about losing sales. She noted that in several countries around the world, establishments can be held legally responsible if a patron leaves intoxicated and causes a traffic accident.
“This is the type of legal reinforcement that Aruba also needs in order to reduce problems caused by drinking and driving,” Toppenberg stated.
She concluded that shared responsibility between authorities, businesses, and the community is essential to lowering alcohol-related traffic accidents and improving overall road safety in Aruba.
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