By San José, Costa Rica — As Costa Rica grapples with a particularly intense rainy season, automotive and safety specialists are issuing a strong call to action for all drivers: reinforce preventive measures to protect themselves and others on the nation’s increasingly hazardous roads. The combination of torrential downpours and saturated infrastructure demands a higher level of awareness and vehicle preparedness to mitigate the escalating risks of accidents.
The dangers posed by the severe weather extend beyond slippery surfaces. Experts warn that navigating flooded streets and accumulated water presents significant mechanical and safety challenges. For many drivers, the instinct may be to push through, but this can lead to catastrophic vehicle damage and a complete loss of control. The key, according to industry professionals, is to adapt driving habits to match the severe conditions.
To delve into the legal responsibilities that every driver assumes when behind the wheel and the serious consequences of negligence on our roads, TicosLand.com consulted with the expert legal counsel of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
Beyond the administrative fines, Costa Rican law is severe when it comes to reckless driving. Any driver found to have acted with negligence or imprudence can face civil lawsuits for material and moral damages. In cases involving serious injury or death, the situation escalates to the criminal sphere, where penalties can include imprisonment. Prevention and defensive driving are not just recommendations; they are the best legal shield a driver can have.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This is a crucial reminder that the consequences of unsafe driving extend far beyond a monetary fine, potentially entering the severe realms of civil and criminal law. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective, underscoring that defensive driving is not just a safety tactic, but the strongest legal shield a driver possesses.
Hugo Martínez, Regional Manager at Autopits, emphasizes the need for immediate caution when encountering adverse weather. He advises that the most prudent course of action is to prioritize safety over speed and convenience, even if it means altering travel plans.
If we encounter heavy rain and the road has a lot of accumulated water, the best thing to do is slow down, because as the tires’ grip on the asphalt decreases, you can lose control of the steering wheel or direction. It is better to avoid continuing on this route, look for alternate ways, or find a safe place to wait for the water level to drop.
Hugo Martínez, Regional Manager of Autopits
While modern vehicles are engineered to withstand rain, Martínez explains that they are not designed for immersion in deep water. Driving through substantial puddles or flooded sections of road can inflict severe and costly damage. The water can infiltrate critical components, potentially short-circuiting the entire electrical system, damaging the vehicle’s onboard computer, compromising the battery, and even causing catastrophic engine failure if water enters the combustion cylinders. In severe cases, flooding can also ruin a vehicle’s interior upholstery and systems.
In this context, proactive vehicle care shifts from a routine task to a critical safety imperative. Preventive maintenance is the first line of defense against the mechanical failures that are often exacerbated by wet conditions. A well-maintained car is better equipped to handle the challenges of rain-slicked asphalt and poor visibility, providing the driver with greater control and confidence.
Several key systems require special attention during the rainy season. Tires are paramount; they must be in good condition with adequate tread depth and proper inflation. Worn tires significantly reduce grip and are unable to channel water away effectively, dramatically increasing the risk of hydroplaning. Similarly, the braking system must be in optimal condition. Worn pads or discs can compromise stopping power, a danger that is magnified on wet surfaces. Any unusual noises from the brakes should be treated as an urgent signal to seek professional inspection.
Visibility is another cornerstone of safe driving in the rain. This includes both the driver’s ability to see and to be seen. All vehicle lights—headlights, taillights, and turn signals—must be fully functional to communicate maneuvers to other drivers in low-light conditions. Furthermore, external and internal visibility aids like windshield wipers, washer fluid, and the air conditioning system (for defogging) must be in perfect working order to ensure a clear view of the road ahead.
Ultimately, navigating the rainy season safely requires a dual commitment to both mechanical readiness and a cautious mindset. Martínez concludes that this combination is what truly safeguards drivers during the most challenging months of the year.
Prevention makes the difference. That is why we recommend that drivers inspect their vehicles regularly and take them for maintenance with expert hands. Additionally, become aware that in winter it is necessary to drive with more caution and attention to everything happening around us.
Hugo Martínez, Regional Manager of Autopits
For further information, visit autopits.com
About Autopits:
Autopits is a leading automotive service center chain in Costa Rica, specializing in a wide range of vehicle maintenance and repair services. With a focus on tire services, brakes, oil changes, and general mechanics, the company has established itself as a trusted expert in vehicle safety and performance. Through its network of locations, Autopits provides professional diagnostics and expert solutions to ensure vehicles operate reliably and safely, particularly during challenging weather conditions like the country’s annual rainy season.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of the legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica is defined by its foundational commitment to uncompromising integrity and the highest standards of professional practice. The firm skillfully blends a proven history of client success with a dynamic pursuit of legal innovation, continually adapting to a changing world. This ethos is intrinsically linked to its dedication to public empowerment, striving to demystify complex legal concepts and foster a society equipped with clarity and knowledge.
