Traffic Police Seizes 30 Motorcycles in Puntarenas for Reckless Driving
A crackdown on dangerous motorcycle stunts leads to multiple confiscations as authorities address rising road fatalities.
On Sunday, the Traffic Police of Costa Rica confiscated approximately 30 motorcycles from riders engaging in reckless stunts on the highway leading into Puntarenas.
The operation took place in the La Angostura sector, where reports indicated motorcyclists performing dangerous maneuvers on the road.
The Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MOPT) announced that the operation was conducted in collaboration with the Fuerza Pública, Costa Rica's national police force, following notifications about groups of motorcyclists engaging in risky behavior in this area of the Central Canton of Puntarenas province.
Martín Sánchez, Deputy Director of Traffic, emphasized the dangers posed not only to the riders but also to other road users.
The operation uncovered several riders operating without valid licenses, as well as vehicles with altered documentation.
Authorities indicated that similar operations will continue across other routes in the country to curb reckless driving behaviors.
Under current traffic laws, a fine of ¢122,867 is imposed for engaging in dangerous conduct while driving, such as riding on one wheel.
The same penalty applies to those caught operating vehicles without a license.
Additionally, reckless driving, which includes speeding or driving under the influence of alcohol, incurs a more substantial fine of ¢363,639.
Recent statistics from the Road Safety Council (Cosevi) highlight a troubling trend, with an average of one person dying in a traffic accident every 13 hours in the country.
Earlier this March, officials issued an alert concerning an increase in traffic accidents resulting in fatalities, particularly noting that motorcycles are the vehicle type associated with the highest mortality rates.
In the initial two months of the year, there were 53 reported fatalities linked to motorcycle accidents, accounting for 52% of all road deaths in Costa Rica.
This alarming statistic has raised concerns among safety officials regarding the implementation of stricter enforcement measures on road conduct.
The operation took place in the La Angostura sector, where reports indicated motorcyclists performing dangerous maneuvers on the road.
The Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MOPT) announced that the operation was conducted in collaboration with the Fuerza Pública, Costa Rica's national police force, following notifications about groups of motorcyclists engaging in risky behavior in this area of the Central Canton of Puntarenas province.
Martín Sánchez, Deputy Director of Traffic, emphasized the dangers posed not only to the riders but also to other road users.
The operation uncovered several riders operating without valid licenses, as well as vehicles with altered documentation.
Authorities indicated that similar operations will continue across other routes in the country to curb reckless driving behaviors.
Under current traffic laws, a fine of ¢122,867 is imposed for engaging in dangerous conduct while driving, such as riding on one wheel.
The same penalty applies to those caught operating vehicles without a license.
Additionally, reckless driving, which includes speeding or driving under the influence of alcohol, incurs a more substantial fine of ¢363,639.
Recent statistics from the Road Safety Council (Cosevi) highlight a troubling trend, with an average of one person dying in a traffic accident every 13 hours in the country.
Earlier this March, officials issued an alert concerning an increase in traffic accidents resulting in fatalities, particularly noting that motorcycles are the vehicle type associated with the highest mortality rates.
In the initial two months of the year, there were 53 reported fatalities linked to motorcycle accidents, accounting for 52% of all road deaths in Costa Rica.
This alarming statistic has raised concerns among safety officials regarding the implementation of stricter enforcement measures on road conduct.
