By Belize Live News Staff: Tourism Minister Anthony Mahler has called for action to limit the use of salvage title vehicles in Belize, especially in the car rental sector. His comments come amid growing concerns about road safety and the country’s image as a tourism destination.
Salvage vehicles are imported to Belize from the United States after being declared total losses due to accidents, floods, or other severe damage. Many are repaired and put into use, but Mahler warned that a high percentage may be unfit for the road.
He pointed to multiple cases where these vehicles have caught fire, including a recent incident on John Smith Road. With roughly 66 percent of rental cars reportedly being salvage titles, Mahler said it is time for change. “If we want the industry to grow and our nation to progress, we must do the right things,” he said.
He urged policymakers to take a closer look at the licensing process to ensure only roadworthy vehicles are approved for use.
