The Minister for Communications and Works, Honourable Kye Rymer, has announced a record-breaking number of vehicle registrations in the Virgin Islands, emphasizing the need for enhanced road safety measures amidst the surge in vehicle ownership.
Addressing the House of Assembly recently, Minister Rymer revealed that a remarkable 19,982 vehicles were licensed in 2023, marking a significant milestone for the territory. He said this notable increase underscores a growing trend in the community’s vehicle ownership, reflecting the evolving transportation landscape.
While applauding this achievement, Minister Rymer stressed the paramount importance of road safety, particularly in light of the rising number of licensed motorcycles and scooters. He noted a concerning escalation from 213 motorcycles and scooters licensed in 2022 to 349 in 2023. Despite this uptick, he said there remains a substantial presence of uninsured and unlicensed vehicles on the roads, posing potential risks to road users.
In response to this issue, Rymer revealed that the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is launching a proactive initiative aimed at promoting insurance and licensing for motorcycles and scooters. He said it will be a two-day bike drive that seeks to educate riders on safety measures and foster responsible road-sharing behaviors among all motorists. As it pertains to the date, Rymer said planning is still on going with the intentions of executing the initiative before June 30, 2024.
“During the bike drive, participants will benefit from informative lectures on safety practices and road-sharing etiquette. They will also have the opportunity to undergo both written and practical tests on-site. Moreover, individuals can conveniently insure and license their motorcycles and scooters during this event,” he explained.
Minister Rymer highlighted the affordability of scooter insurance, noting that it averages around $250.00, with an annual licensing fee of $35.00. He urged all bikers in the BVI to prioritize their safety and legal obligations by taking advantage of this initiative.
“By ensuring the insurance and licensing of your motorcycle and scooter, you actively contribute to a safer community environment for all road users,” Minister Rymer stated.