Fines for violating traffic regulations will be reduced by 1.04% beginning January 1, 2024, according to the Ministry of Public Transports.

The Court Superior Council authorized the decrease based on the Consumer Price Index.

Drivers are warned that beginning next month, fines for drunk driving, speeding and using the opposite lane on a bridge, among others that are classified as " A-Level" will apply a fine of approximately $680. In addition to the fine, the driver will receive a 6-point penalty on their driver's license record.

When a driver is penalized with 6 points on their driving record, their driver's license is suspended. They are forced to retake the driving course and score a minimum of 70 points out of 100 to renew their driver’s licenses.

Concerning violations classified as "B-Level" - such as taking children under five years old in a motorcycle, or carrying children without safety devices in the vehicle, a fine of about $460 will be issued. In addition to the fine, the driver will receive a 4-point penalty on his driver's license record.

In the case of fines classified as "C-Level" such as driving on sidewalks, talking on a cell phone or carrying pets on your lap while driving among others, the fine will be approximately $230.

In the case of the lowest fines classified as "D-Level", such as driving or parking the vehicle in the beach area or parking in a prohibited area, among others, the fine will be about $115.

In the case of the lowest fines classified as " E-Level", such as driving with an expired license or not carrying a fire extinguisher, among others, the fine will be $50.

The money generated with the payment of the fines is used to cover the Traffic Police expenses, road safety campaign expenses and maintain the road traffic signs aid the Red Cross, among others, authorities added.

The full list of fines can be reached in Spanish language only on the Road Safety Council (Cosevi) website.

The Traffic Police announced there will not be a restriction on vehicle plate numbers in San José City during the holidays.

Police are warning travelers during the beginning of the high season of tourism to respect the rules as they’ll be out in full force. They launched the "Safe Christmas Operation" to provide more surveillance and security during the Christmas and New Year holidays.

As of October, there were 415 deaths in traffic accidents, Traffic Police reported.

Last year closed with more than 480 deaths in traffic accidents.

Police call on drivers to respect the law and take precautionary measures to avoid accidents. People can report any case of reckless driving to the 911 emergency line.

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