RICO’s Q — The lack of sufficient Transitos (traffic officials) on the roads today and their heavy workload means that many drivers do not carry the required safety equipment for their vehicles.
However, failing to comply with this requirement could result in a fine of ¢26,000 colones plus additional costs when a traffic official decides to enforce the rule strictly.
What is the mandatory equipment?
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Costa Rica’s Ley de Transito (Traffic Law) requires that each vehicle be equipped with the following:
- A fire extinguisher (extintor in Spanish). It must be current and in good condition.
- Warning triangles or cones. They are required to be placed at a reasonable distance to alert other drivers in case of emergency.
- Reflective vest. Necessary to be visible when leaving the vehicle, whether for repairs or waiting for the authorities after an accident, especially important at night.
- Spare tire. Must be inflated and in good condition, along with the necessary tools to change it.
In 2024, according to the Policia de Transito (Traffic Police), 10,508 drivers were fined for not having the required implements, making it the seventh-highest number of fines issued on the road.
In the event that the vehicle does not come from a factory spare tire, it is valid to carry a tire repair kit as an alternative. In these cases, the driver is not fined for not carrying the spare tire.
Additional recommendations
Although not mandatory, these items can be very useful:
- Jumper cables (“lagartos” in Spanish).
- Flashlight, ideal for nighttime emergencies.
- Tire inflator that can be connected to the vehicle’s 12-volt device or be rechargeable. Very helpful for slowly moving to reach home or the nearest garage without needing to replace the tire.
- A portable power jumper that allows you to start the battery in case of discharge. They have come down in price lately and more powerful. On this, it is important to read the vehicle owner’s manual, to know if it is recommended to use them and under what conditions.
Taking the aforementioned precautions goes beyond simply meeting required regulations and serves as a valuable investment in ensuring your safety and peace of mind while driving.
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Many ask about first aid kits. In October 2012, when the current traffic law was enacted, it is not recommended due to the presence of alcohol and medicines that could be damaged by heat inside the vehicle.
And don’t forget, traffic officials can and will (in most cases) issue multiple traffic fines at the same stop, ie not wearing seatbelt, tinted windows, no child restraint, speeding and not having mandatory equipment, among others.
Safe driving.
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