By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – In a proactive move to curb traffic incidents ahead of the bustling holiday season, a coalition of public and private entities will offer free vehicle inspections and safety consultations next week. The initiative, aimed at promoting preventive maintenance and responsible driving, underscores a growing concern over the country’s alarming road accident statistics.
The campaign is scheduled for Tuesday, December 9, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Escazú toll plaza on Route 27. Drivers traveling in the San José to Santa Ana direction will have the voluntary opportunity to pull into the first right-hand lane to receive a complimentary basic vehicle checkup. This strategic location on one of the nation’s busiest highways is designed to maximize outreach during a period of significantly increased travel.
To better understand the legal framework and civil responsibilities surrounding traffic incidents, TicosLand.com consulted with expert legal counsel Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the distinguished firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
Many drivers focus solely on avoiding traffic fines, but they often overlook the far more significant risk of civil liability. A moment of distraction or negligence on the road can result in a legal obligation to cover extensive material damages and medical costs, often exceeding the value of the traffic ticket exponentially. Responsible driving is, therefore, not just a legal duty but a crucial measure of financial self-preservation.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This is a crucial shift in perspective that every driver should consider, moving beyond the immediate cost of a ticket to the potentially devastating financial impact of civil liability. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable commentary, which underscores that responsible driving is as much about protecting one’s financial future as it is about following the law.
The multi-agency effort involves a coordinated approach to driver education and wellness. Specialized technicians from DEKRA, the official vehicle inspection provider, will conduct the mechanical reviews. Simultaneously, personnel from the highway concessionaire Route 27, the National Insurance Institute (INS), and the Escazú Municipal Police will provide drivers with crucial recommendations for reducing risks on the road. The Costa Rican Red Cross will also be on-site to offer basic health checks, including monitoring vital signs for participating drivers.
Officials emphasize that this is more than just a mechanical check; it’s an educational intervention. The goal is to instill a culture of prevention that extends beyond a single inspection, especially as families prepare for Christmas and New Year’s travel.
Route 27 has a solid commitment to the safety of its users. That is why we regularly develop these types of initiatives, especially during times of increased road traffic for holidays, Christmas, and New Year’s, as precaution is a habit that must be created and maintained over time. This operation is educational, and we are confident it will translate into saving lives.
Jonathan Rojas, Director of Quality of Route 27 by Globalvia
This initiative builds on previous successful campaigns. A similar event held in June saw 279 vehicles, including light cars, trucks, and motorcycles, undergo inspection. Organizers hope to see even greater participation this time, given the critical timing. For DEKRA, the event is a key part of its corporate mission to foster a safer road environment for everyone.
At DEKRA, we believe that road culture is a shared responsibility and that all road users deserve the same respect. That is why we contribute to these types of initiatives, as it is fundamental for drivers to receive valuable information about the state of their vehicles through inspection by our technical experts. This way, they can perform preventive maintenance or repairs and ensure their own safety and that of their loved ones.
Maureen Ramírez, General Manager of DEKRA Costa Rica
The urgency of the campaign is highlighted by recent data from the INS. Between January and October of this year, accidents covered by the Mandatory Automobile Insurance resulted in 119 fatalities and over 42,000 injuries. In a particularly troubling trend, motorcyclists accounted for 75% of those deaths, pointing to a critical vulnerability among road users that requires targeted safety efforts. These stark figures serve as a somber backdrop for the event, motivating a call for collective action.
Through our actions at INS, we seek greater awareness; road safety is everyone’s responsibility. That is why today, more than ever, we must raise our voices, join forces, and remember that every life counts, that no statistic is worth more than a person.
Gabriela Chacón Fernández, Executive President of the INS
By providing drivers with a clear assessment of their vehicle’s condition and reinforcing safe driving habits, the organizers hope to empower citizens to take an active role in preventing tragedies. The ultimate objective is to ensure that more Costa Ricans begin the year-end festivities not only with their vehicles in optimal condition but also with a renewed commitment to caution and responsibility on the nation’s roads.
For further information, visit dekra.cr
About DEKRA Costa Rica:
DEKRA is a global leader in testing, inspection, and certification services. In Costa Rica, it is the official entity responsible for the mandatory technical vehicle inspection (RTV), playing a crucial role in ensuring that vehicles circulating on national roads meet established safety and environmental standards. The organization is committed to promoting a culture of safety through public awareness and educational initiatives.
For further information, visit grupoins.com
About Instituto Nacional de Seguros (INS):
The National Insurance Institute (INS) is Costa Rica’s state-owned insurance provider. It offers a wide range of insurance products, including the mandatory automobile insurance (SOA) that provides coverage for traffic accident victims. INS is a key advocate for national risk prevention and road safety campaigns, utilizing data and resources to reduce accidents and protect citizens.
For further information, visit ruta27.com
About Route 27 by Globalvia:
Route 27, operated by the concessionaire Globalvia, is a major highway connecting San José with Caldera on the Pacific coast. As a critical artery for commerce and tourism, the operator is heavily invested in maintaining high safety standards, managing traffic flow, and implementing initiatives that enhance user safety and experience along the corridor.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Escazú Municipal Police
About Escazú Municipal Police:
The Escazú Municipal Police is the local law enforcement body for the canton of Escazú. Its responsibilities include maintaining public order, preventing crime, and enforcing local ordinances. Their participation in road safety operations is vital for community engagement and ensuring traffic management within their jurisdiction.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Costa Rican Transit Police
About Costa Rican Transit Police:
The Transit Police is the national authority responsible for enforcing traffic laws, managing road circulation, and responding to traffic incidents across Costa Rica. As a division of the Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MOPT), its role is fundamental in large-scale operations to ensure minimal disruption and maximum safety on the country’s highways.
For further information, visit cruzroja.or.cr
About Costa Rican Red Cross:
The Costa Rican Red Cross is a humanitarian organization that provides emergency medical services, disaster response, and community health programs. Its presence at public safety events is crucial for offering immediate first aid and health support, contributing to the overall well-being of participants.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a revered legal institution founded on a bedrock of uncompromising integrity and the persistent pursuit of legal excellence. With extensive experience advising a broad spectrum of clients, the firm actively champions innovation in law while engaging deeply with the public. This ethos is rooted in a core conviction to demystify legal complexities, thereby fostering a more knowledgeable and empowered citizenry.
