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Traffic Act Bonaire
On August 1, 2019 the adapted Traffic Act will come into effect. On this website you can read about the rules. Which rules come into effect? What must you comply with? What are the risks and fines?
General
In 1957 the first Traffic Act, the ‘Wegenverkeersverordening’(road traffic regulation) came into force. Our population and participants in traffic have increased significantly since then. Therefore, it is high time to adapt the traffic rules.
Traffic rules
On August 1, 2019 the adapted Traffic Act will come into effect. Here are the rules that the police will monitor starting August 1.
Enforcement and controls
From August 1st up to October 1st, the police will call your attention if you are not complying to these rules. You will not be fined yet. Starting October 1st you will receive a traffic ticket if you are in violation of the rules.
The Traffic Act: 1957 and 2019
Bonaire has undergone many changes in the past years. In 1957 Bonaire had 5,663 residents. Nowadays the island has a population of 20,488 residents. The number of vehicles on Bonaire has also increased significantly. From approximately 250 cars and 3 motorcycles in 1957, there are now 15,696 cars on Bonaire. In total, there are 1,816 scooters, motorcycles and quads.
In 1957 the first Traffic Act, the ‘Wegenverkeersverordening’(road traffic regulation) came into force. Our population and participants in traffic have increased significantly since then. Therefore, it is high time to adapt the traffic rules. This is why the old Traffic Act of 1957 has been replaced by a new law. These new rules are necessary to ensure everyone’s safety in traffic. The new rules will enter into effect on August 1, 2019.
Traffic 2018
The first five traffic acts
On August 1, 2019 the adapted Traffic Act will come into effect. Here are the rules that the police will monitor starting August 1.
Safety
Mobile telephone
You may not hold a mobile telephone in your hand while driving
Safety
Seatbelt
All passengers in the car must wear a seat belt
Safety
Childseat
Children 3 years of age or younger must be seated in a child’s car seat while in the car
Safety
Helm
Drivers of scooters, motorcycles and ATV quads must wear a safety helm
Safety
Alcohol
In the former and new Traffic Act, driving under the influence of alcohol is punishable.
Overview of the traffic rules
From August 1 until October 1, the police will call your attention when you are not complying to these rules. More rules will be coming into effect. The government of Bonaire continues to inform about these regularly. Please check this website frequently to stay abreast.
I trust that you will adhere to the new rules. These are ultimately for the safety of us all. The safety of our children, our family, friends, acquaintances and the tourists on Bonaire. This is what we do it for.
Governor of Bonaire
Edison Rijna