The Ministry of Public Works and Transport called for greater caution on the roads due to the start of the rainy season, according to an April 28 announcement. Recent rainfall has been reported in the southern region and Central Valley, prompting officials to remind all road users—drivers, pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists—to adopt safer behaviors.
Officials say that increased visibility is essential during this period to reduce accidents. Martín Sánchez Agüero, director of the Traffic Police, said that changing behavior on the road by staying alert and reducing speed can help lower risks. He added that wearing light or reflective clothing is especially important for pedestrians and cyclists, particularly students commuting to school.
Sánchez Agüero also said that motorcycle riders must wear vests and keep their vehicle lights on while riding as required by law. For all vehicles, he advised turning on headlights when it is cloudy, dark, raining or foggy—not just for illumination but also to be seen by others. “The lights are not only for lighting up the road but equally important for being visible to other road users,” Sánchez said.
He emphasized that drivers should avoid distractions such as using a mobile phone while driving. Preventive maintenance was also highlighted; checking if vehicle lights are working properly and ensuring tires have adequate tread becomes more important with wet roads. The official recommended asking someone else to check brake lights and reverse lights while drivers can test front headlights themselves.
Sánchez Agüero explained that under Article 103 of traffic law, vehicle lights must be turned on between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m., as well as in poor visibility conditions like fog or heavy rain. With initial rains loosening oil from roads—which mixes with water creating slippery surfaces—he urged everyone to drive slower than during dry weather periods.
He warned about puddles forming due to clogged drains after early rains which may cause vehicles—including motorcycles and bicycles—to lose traction temporarily or veer off course. Cyclists and motorcyclists were advised against riding over metal covers or train tracks when wet because these surfaces become especially slippery.
According to Sánchez Agüero, “Reducing speed at all times—and especially during rainy season—allows better reaction time in case something unexpected happens.” Data from earlier this year shows speeding remains a leading cause of traffic fatalities.
