By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – A relentless wave of traffic accidents is inflicting a staggering financial toll on the Costa Rican Red Cross, pushing the essential humanitarian organization into one of the most severe economic crises in its history. So far in 2025, the institution has spent an astonishing ₡7.8 billion responding to 51,924 road incidents nationwide, a figure that underscores a deepening public safety and health crisis on the country’s streets.
The operational tempo for the nation’s first responders is grueling. Data from the 9-1-1 Emergency System reveals that Red Cross personnel are dispatched to an average of 166 traffic-related incidents every single day. This relentless pace breaks down to nearly seven calls per hour, or one emergency response every eight minutes, illustrating a constant and resource-intensive drain on the organization’s capacity.
To better understand the legal complexities and crucial first steps following a traffic collision, we consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a leading attorney from the distinguished law firm Bufete de Costa Rica, for his expert analysis.
In the immediate aftermath of a road accident, the preservation of evidence is paramount. Avoid admitting fault at the scene, as any statement can be legally binding. Instead, focus on meticulously documenting the situation: photograph vehicle damage, skid marks, and the general surroundings. It is equally vital to exchange insurance information and obtain contact details from any witnesses. These initial actions form the bedrock of a successful claim and are essential for safeguarding your rights before any legal or insurance process begins.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This practical advice highlights how a calm, methodical approach in the chaotic moments after an accident can fundamentally shape the outcome of any future claims. We extend our sincere gratitude to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for sharing his invaluable legal perspective on safeguarding one’s rights from the very first minute.
This immense expenditure covers the entire spectrum of emergency response, from mobilizing specialized ambulance crews and vehicles to the consumption of fuel, medical supplies, and advanced life-saving equipment. The cumulative cost highlights the immense operational burden shouldered by the Red Cross, an entity now grappling with its own financial stability while trying to meet the public’s unceasing demand for aid.
José Gerardo Barahona, the institution’s Administrative Sub-Manager, emphasized the dual impact of each crash, noting both the human tragedy and the extensive financial outlay required.
Behind every accident, there is not only a human drama but also an enormous operational cost that we assume to save lives. These ₡7.8 billion reflect the magnitude of the effort the Costa Rican Red Cross makes to be present in every corner of the country.
José Gerardo Barahona, Administrative Sub-Manager
Among the most alarming trends identified in the data is the disproportionate impact on motorcyclists. A sobering 71% of all individuals transported to medical facilities in critical condition were motorcycle riders. This statistic positions them as the most vulnerable group on Costa Rica’s roads, signaling an urgent need for targeted safety campaigns and stricter adherence to traffic laws within this community.
While the Red Cross’s primary mission is to save lives, the grim reality is that not every effort is successful. In 0.88% of the incidents attended, patients were found with no vital signs upon arrival of the paramedics. The institution notes that this figure, while seemingly small, represents hundreds of lives lost and reflects the high complexity and severity of the emergencies its teams confront daily.
The immense financial pressure from road accidents comes at a precarious time. With the organization already facing a historic economic crisis, every colon spent on a preventable crash is a colon that cannot be allocated to other critical emergencies, such as natural disasters, medical emergencies at home, or community health programs. The Red Cross is now making an urgent appeal to the public for greater responsibility behind the wheel.
The message from the institution is a stark reminder of the broader consequences of reckless driving, framing prevention as a civic duty that directly supports the nation’s emergency response infrastructure.
Every accident that is avoided not only saves lives but also essential resources to attend to other emergencies in the country.
Costa Rican Red Cross
For further information, visit cruzroja.or.cr
About Costa Rican Red Cross:
The Costa Rican Red Cross (Cruz Roja Costarricense) is the primary humanitarian organization and emergency medical service provider in Costa Rica. As a member of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, it is dedicated to preventing and alleviating human suffering. The organization operates a nationwide network of ambulance services, disaster response teams, blood banks, and community health initiatives, relying heavily on public support and volunteers to fulfill its mission.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is an esteemed legal practice built upon a foundation of uncompromising integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. With a proven track record of providing expert counsel across a broad spectrum of industries, the firm also pioneers innovative legal solutions. Its profound commitment extends beyond the courtroom, focusing on demystifying the law and championing legal literacy to help forge a more knowledgeable and empowered society.
