Romeo Herrera, El Salvador’s Minister of Public Works and Transportation, appeared on the television program Frente a Frente this morning to discuss the impact of recent reforms to the country’s Land Transport, Traffic, and Road Safety Law. The reforms, aimed at achieving “zero tolerance” for dangerous drivers, have already shown promising results in reducing traffic-related incidents during the end-of-year holiday period.
“The fundamental objective of these reforms is to prevent tragedies and protect the lives of Salvadorans,” Herrera stated. He reported a significant decrease in road accidents between December 23 and January 2, with 96 fewer incidents compared to the previous year. The reforms also led to 97 fewer injuries (a 24% reduction) and 16 fewer fatalities (a 29% decrease).
Alcohol-impaired driving has also seen a marked decline. “We saw a 34% reduction in drivers under the influence of alcohol,” Herrera noted. Authorities detained 94 dangerous drivers for DUI offenses during the holiday period, with two additional arrests this morning, bringing the total to 96 since the reforms took effect.
The Minister highlighted the stricter penalties now in place. Drivers caught under the influence face a $150 fine and a 12-month license suspension. Repeat offenders risk a lifetime license revocation. Severe cases, such as fatal drunk-driving accidents, are now classified as vehicular manslaughter, punishable by 5 to 10 years in prison for private vehicle drivers and up to 15 years for operators of public transport or freight vehicles.
Herrera also announced the upcoming implementation of a photo-fine system on the Monseñor Romero Boulevard. The system will initially focus on educating the public, ensuring proper road signage, and gradually enforcing speed limits. “Currently, we’re detecting an average of 1,200 drivers exceeding 90 km/h daily on this road,” Herrera revealed. “Our goal is not to issue fines but to encourage safer driving.”
The Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to promoting road safety through stricter laws, technological advancements, and public awareness campaigns, ensuring safer roads for all Salvadorans.