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Government eyes license revocation for reckless driving offenses

Chief Executive Officer in the Ministry of Transport, Chester Williams, has issued a strong warning to reckless drivers across the country, saying that the government is prepared to take tougher measures to restore discipline and accountability on Belize’s highways. Speaking to the media, Williams revealed that the Ministry is actively exploring legislative changes that would allow the government to revoke driver’s licenses for individuals found guilty of serious traffic offences.  Williams explained that the proposed policy would specifically target drunk drivers, repeat offenders, and motorists involved in grave infractions such as dangerous overtaking, excessive speeding, and causing fatal accidents. He stressed that too many lives are being lost due to blatant disregard for traffic laws, and that the Ministry will no longer tolerate reckless behavior behind the wheel.

Chester Williams, CEO, Ministry of Transport: “Majority of accidents are caused due to carelessness, negligence on the part of drivers. I believe that if you are found to be driving a vehicle under the influenced and you cause the death of a person you should not be treated lightly, like the way it is now you’re just given a fine of $5,000 compensation and then you go and you get a license and continue to drive again. I do believe that stricter measures need to be taken and we’re addressing that likewise to create a separate regime where we’re proposing stiffer penalties and in some cases where drivers will be, drivers license will be revoked for life, right? So these are things that we want to do to send a strong message to drivers that while yes you have a driver’s license, the driver’s license that you possess is a privilege that you have. It’s not a right.”

The Transport CEO noted that while fines and charges currently serve as deterrents, they are not enough to change the mindset of habitual offenders. The introduction of license revocation would add a stronger layer of accountability, ensuring that those who endanger others on the road face lasting consequences.