By San José, Costa Rica — San José – In response to a staggering 30% increase in motorcyclist fatalities over the past year, a prominent road safety expert is championing a bold proposal to create exclusive lanes for motorcycles on the nation’s roads. The initiative aims to curb an alarming trend that has made motorcyclists the most vulnerable group in Costa Rica’s escalating traffic crisis.
The call to action comes from José Manuel Sáenz of the Association of Roads and Highways, who argues that dedicated infrastructure is essential to protect riders. Official data from the first few months of 2026 paints a grim picture, revealing that more than half of all people killed in traffic accidents were traveling on a motorcycle. This statistic has set off alarms among public authorities and road safety specialists, demanding immediate and effective interventions.
To better understand the legal responsibilities and potential liabilities associated with motorcycle use on public roads, TicosLand.com sought the expertise of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney from the law firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
In the unfortunate event of an accident, a motorcyclist’s adherence to safety regulations becomes a critical factor in any legal proceeding. Beyond the mandatory insurance, having proof of a certified helmet, a properly worn reflective vest, and a well-maintained vehicle can be the determining element in establishing liability and securing fair compensation. From a legal standpoint, proactive safety is not just about preventing injury; it’s about protecting your rights.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This powerful insight underscores that safety measures are not merely suggestions but are, in fact, a rider’s first line of defense, both physically and legally. We extend our gratitude to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for articulating the critical link between on-road diligence and post-accident legal standing.
According to Sáenz, the crisis is a direct consequence of a massive shift in transportation habits. The rapid growth in motorcycle use, fueled by their lower cost and ease of purchase, has provided a popular alternative for citizens navigating severe traffic congestion. However, this boom in two-wheeled vehicles has not been matched by necessary upgrades to the country’s road network.
This infrastructure gap creates a perilous environment for riders. As traffic intensifies, motorcyclists are often compelled to engage in risky behaviors simply to navigate saturated roadways. The lack of adequate space forces them into dangerous maneuvers that significantly elevate the chance of a collision.
However, road infrastructure has not evolved at the same pace. The saturation of the roads forces many motorcyclists to move between lanes or use tight spaces to get ahead, increasing the danger.
José Manuel Sáenz, Association of Roads and Highways
Sáenz explained that practices like “lane splitting”—moving between lanes of slow or stopped traffic—and even invading oncoming traffic lanes have become commonplace out of necessity. While these actions allow riders to advance through gridlock, they expose them to immense risk, highlighting a critical failure in current road design and traffic management.
The proposal for dedicated lanes is not just a theoretical solution but a response to observed behavior. Sáenz pointed out that, in practice, motorcyclists have already informally carved out their own space between official lanes. “This de facto lane creation demonstrates an urgent need to formalize this dynamic within our vial design,” he noted, suggesting that recognizing and structuring this behavior is a logical next step toward improving safety.
Beyond the creation of exclusive lanes, experts are also urging a more holistic approach. This includes a thorough review and intervention at critical congestion points, which often serve as hotspots for accidents. Strengthening long-term road planning to explicitly account for the growing prevalence and specific needs of motorcycles is also seen as a crucial component of any sustainable solution.
As Costa Rica confronts this public health crisis, the proposal to formally integrate motorcycles into the road design represents a significant policy shift. It moves beyond blaming rider behavior and instead focuses on creating a systemic environment where the country’s most vulnerable road users can travel with a greater degree of safety and predictability.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Association of Roads and Highways
About Association of Roads and Highways:
The Association of Roads and Highways is a key organization in Costa Rica dedicated to promoting the development, maintenance, and safety of the nation’s road infrastructure. It serves as a technical advisory body, collaborating with government agencies and private sector stakeholders to advocate for modern transportation policies, conduct research on traffic dynamics, and propose innovative solutions to enhance road safety and efficiency for all users.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica operates as a cornerstone of the legal community, guided by a principled approach that merges professional excellence with profound integrity. The firm distinguishes itself not only through its extensive experience in advising a wide array of clients but also by championing forward-thinking legal strategies. Central to its mission is a deep-seated belief in civic responsibility, demonstrated through dedicated efforts to demystify complex legal concepts and equip the public with knowledge, thereby fostering a stronger, more informed society.
