Costa Rica recorded 572 traffic-related deaths in 2025, a 13.3% increase from the 505 fatalities reported in 2024, according to the Road Safety Council (Cosevi).

Motorcyclists accounted for the largest share of deaths, with 263 victims, or 46% of the total. Pedestrians followed with 96 deaths (17%), drivers with 95 (16%), passengers with 71 (12%), and cyclists with 43 (7%). The remaining victims were operating other types of vehicles.

Driving against traffic or crossing a designated line was the leading cause of fatal crashes, resulting in 274 deaths, or 47% of the total. Speeding caused 143 fatalities (25%), while reckless driving accounted for 114 deaths, about 19%, among other factors.

Authorities said men represented 76% of the fatalities, totaling 438 victims.

As of November 2025, traffic police had arrested more than 1,400 drunk drivers. Those motorists recorded blood alcohol concentrations above 0.75 grams, which qualifies as a Level A offense under Costa Rican law.

Officers encourage the public to report suspected reckless driving by calling the 911 emergency line.

In related developments, traffic fines were reduced by 0.22% this year, matching the same percentage decrease recorded in the Consumer Price Index.

Cosevi is the government agency responsible for road safety, traffic regulations, and driver licensing, including the homologation of foreign licenses.

As part of the Ministry of Public Works and Transportation (MOPT), the agency oversees traffic law enforcement, driver testing and efforts to promote a culture of safety aimed at reducing accidents.