As the debate continues about the misuse of motorcycles and motor scooters on the roads in the [British] Virgin Islands (VI), the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) recorded an increase in their licensing in 2023. Photo: redfoxpowersports.com/File

Minister for Communications and Works on Kye M. Rymer (R5) in a statement on motorcycle safety at the Ninth Sitting of the First Session of the Fifth House of Assembly (HoA) of the Virgin Islands on March 5, 2024, said Three Hundred and Forty-Nine (349) motorcycles and scooters were licensed in 2023, but there remains a ‘substantial presence of uninsured and unlicensed vehicles, bikes and scooters on our roads’. Photo: YouTube

This was revealed by Minister for Communications and Works on Kye M. Rymer (R5) in a statement on motorcycle safety at the Ninth Sitting of the First Session of the Fifth House of Assembly (HoA) of the Virgin Islands on March 5, 2024.

“As a department dedicated to enhancing driver safety, we have observed a concerning rise in the licensing of motor vehicles and scooters.

“Madam Speaker, in 2022, Two Hundred and Thirteen (213) motorcycles and scooters were licensed, that number escalated to Three Hundred and Forty-Nine (349) in 2023. Despite this uptick, there remains a substantial presence of uninsured and unlicensed vehicles, bikes and scooters on our roads,” Hon Rymer stated.

2-day bike drive

To address this issue, Hon Rymer said the DMV is launching a two-day bike drive aimed at promoting insurance and licensing for motorcycles and scooters. He said this initiative seeks to educate riders on safety measures and foster responsible road-sharing behaviors.

“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.”

For those interested, Hon Rymer said it is essential to note that scooter insurance costs approximately Two Hundred and Fifty Dollars ($250.00) on average, with an annual licensing fee of Thirty-Five Dollars ($35.00).

“We strongly encourage all bikers within our Beautiful Virgin Islands to seize this chance to prioritize their safety and adhere to legal obligations,” Hon Rymer pleaded.