The number of traffic deaths increased by 73, or about 20.5%, compared with the 352 fatalities recorded during the same period in 2025, police data showed.

Motorcyclists accounted for 247 of the deaths, or 58% of the total, making them the largest group of traffic fatalities.

Drivers were the second-largest group, with 53 deaths, representing 12% of the total. Cyclists accounted for 36 deaths, or 8%. The remaining victims were pedestrians or operators of other types of vehicles.

Speeding was the leading cause of fatal crashes, contributing to 146 deaths, or 34% of all traffic fatalities, according to authorities.

Driving against traffic or crossing a designated center line was the second-leading cause, resulting in 81 deaths, or 19% of the total.

Reckless driving accounted for 66 deaths, or about 15%, among other contributing factors cited by authorities.

Officials are urging the public to report suspected reckless drivers by calling the 911 emergency line.

In related traffic offenses, Costa Rican authorities arrested more than 1,200 drivers for drunk driving from January through August after they tested above the country's legal threshold for a Level-A offense.

More than 1,600 drivers were arrested for drunk driving in 2025, according to police.

MOPT is the government agency responsible for planning and managing Costa Rica's roads, airports and maritime ports, as well as overseeing public transportation regulations.

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