Two stories in subsequent editions of this newspaper are reason for concern among road users. On Wednesday there was a warning about forged car insurance policies circulating in St. Maarten.
This was followed Thursday by news of a woman’s arrest and related house search for involvement in the export of stolen vehicles. Falsified documents allegedly played a role in this case too.
These reports raise the question to what extent motorists on the island are in full compliance. For example, getting in an accident with a driver who lacks at least third-party coverage could have major financial consequences especially in the event of injuries requiring medical care.
Granted, the fact that fake papers were detected in the process of obtaining 2023 number plates indicates that there is some form of effective control. Especially now that authorities are alert to this practice it should be even harder to get away with as well.
This is indeed a serious offence that can have far-reaching implications and enlisting the help of local insurance companies to go after suspected culprits makes sense. Those who for whatever reason don’t really know would do well to take the time and make sure they are covered.
Better safe than sorry.
