ORANJESTAD (AAN): Thomas Ruiz, traffic expert and representative of the Vereniging Rijscholen Aruba (VRA), stated in an interview with DIARIO that Aruba has already recorded three fatal traffic accidents at the start of the new year, highlighting the urgent need for stronger traffic safety measures.
“The problems are not new — we have known them for years,” Ruiz explained. “But there must be the will to implement solutions. We can continue discussing plans endlessly, but if they are not implemented, monitored, and adjusted when necessary, we will remain stuck in the same situation.”
Ruiz emphasized that effective traffic safety depends on three key pillars: education, infrastructure, and enforcement.
He acknowledged that the Aruba Police Force (KPA) is making every possible effort but stressed that expectations must be realistic. “The police cannot perform miracles. We are well aware that traffic enforcement is operating with roughly 50 percent staffing shortages, which is a major challenge. However, solutions do exist,” he said.
One proposal includes expanding enforcement support by granting authority to personnel from BCI or the Department of Public Transportation to assist with traffic control. Ruiz also called for the creation of specialized traffic teams dedicated solely to enforcement. “I have said it many times — Aruba needs a strong, no-nonsense traffic enforcement unit that does not hesitate to restore order on the roads,” he remarked.
Ruiz further pointed out that Aruba’s traffic laws are outdated. “Technology continues to evolve, but our legislation is lagging behind,” he said. While updating laws is important, he stressed that public education and awareness are equally critical. Drivers must understand what has changed, what is expected of them, and why stricter measures are necessary.
“We already have close to 100,000 vehicles on the road, and that number keeps increasing. This year will see even more. The question is: where are we going to put them all?” Ruiz concluded.
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