David Collado (DR Tourism Czar at time of this post) is nothing more than a puppet of the elite class who essentially is deceiving tourists about the DR being a safe place. He promotes travel as if it is safe to drive and do backpacking in a country with an alarming rate of traffic related deaths. The road assistance (MOCP) was a step in the right direction but nevertheless, the animals on the road are a reflection of a country with very little education, high severe crimes rate and non-existent leadership. Very dangerous to drive there. Having Visited Cuba and El Salvador, I was blow away how safe it is to walk and drive in both countries. I am originally from the DR and must admit, Cuba and El Salvador are top on my list. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_countries_by_traffic-related_death_rate