Law compels two brake lights on vehicles

September 04, 2011 3:45 PM

The amended Road Traffic Regulation of October 4th 2007 compels vehicles or trucks to have two brake lights.

As this Island Regulation was promulgated, it is effective, according to General Judicial Affairs.

The documents can indeed be read on the website www.curacao-gov.an under the heading SKS. The ban on tinted and mirrored windows and having a right outside mirror were included in this amended Island Regulation simultaneously with the mandatory two brake lights. The then Lieutenant Governor promulgated the amendment immediately.

Several weeks ago, citizen Giovanni Atalita was acquitted for the fine he received earlier this year because only one of his vehicle’s brake lights was working. Before the judge, Atalita referred to the Road Traffic Regulation from 2000, which mentioned that one working brake light would do. The officer of Justice demanded acquittal and the judge agreed. However, it appeared that the regulation was amended in 2007. Although the judgment was based on a mistake, it had already become irrevocable because the officer had demanded acquittal. In this case, the Public Prosecutor cannot appeal to a higher court. Subsequently the third sequel on the discussion started regarding one or two brake lights, namely whether that amendment of 2007 had been promulgated and was effective. This appears to be the case. Atalita’s fine amounted to 50 guilders.

31 August 2011