Dominican Republic sees surge in motorcycle fatalities, 213 deaths reported early 2026

Motorcycle use in the Dominican Republic has exploded to nearly four million units, accounting for about 58 % of the nation's vehicle fleet. More than 70 % of all traffic accidents involve two‑wheel vehicles, and the lack of protective helmets—especially for passengers—has intensified the danger.

According to the Observatorio Permanente de Seguridad Vial (Opsevi), 213 people were killed in motorcycle crashes in the first four months of 2026, representing 31.4 % of all traffic‑related deaths in that period. In 2025, 1,945 deaths (65 % of total traffic fatalities) were recorded, and between 2021 and 2025 the cumulative toll reached 9,058 lives.

The victims are overwhelmingly young men; 36.1 % of the deceased were aged 18‑29 and 89.9 % were male. Dr. Juan Luis Rosario Pérez of Hospital Profesor Juan Bosch noted, "The age group with the highest incidence is between 15 and 35 years." Hospitals are under strain as trauma units handle a steady flow of severe injuries.

The National Institute of Transit and Land Transport (Intrant) has begun discussions on mandatory certified helmets, highlighted at the June 4 2025 National Forum for Responsible Motorcycle Use, but implementation remains uncertain, leaving passengers especially vulnerable.