Public transport users are being reminded of key safety rules as the new work year begins, according to Martín Sánchez Agüero, deputy director of the Traffic Police. The start of the year typically brings an increase in passengers, including workers and parents taking young children to daycare. In early February, students, educators, and families traveling to private educational centers will add to public transport use, with public school and college students returning from February 23.
Sánchez Agüero emphasized that buses and taxis must be completely stopped and pulled over before passengers board or exit. He stated: “There is a tendency for people to want to get off the bus while it is moving or for adults and children to try boarding in the middle of the street. Responsibility is shared: on one hand, the driver who opens the door without pulling over; on the other hand, passengers who do not wait for the vehicle to stop.”
He added that rushing due to poor time management often leads people to chase after buses or cross streets unsafely. Drivers may open doors in unsafe locations trying to help hurried passengers, but this behavior is dangerous.
The Traffic Police advise that inside buses, passengers should use the bell to request stops instead of walking toward doors while vehicles are moving. Passengers are also encouraged not to travel on stairs or allow vehicles with open doors in motion—both actions should be reported immediately by calling 9-1-1.
Other infractions such as drivers failing to follow schedules or routes can be reported through the Public Transport Council (https://www.ctp.go.cr/inconformidades). Riding in overcrowded vehicles should also be reported immediately. Passengers are asked not only to report excessive occupancy but also when drivers use mobile phones while driving.
Another illegal practice highlighted by authorities is when bus or taxi drivers refuel with passengers onboard at gas stations—a violation punishable under traffic law. Such incidents should be reported right away using 9-1-1 or through channels provided by the Public Transport Council with details like date, time, license plate number, route information, and ideally photos or video evidence.
Refusal by drivers to provide service to older adults or people with disabilities—or denying access for guide dogs—should also be reported immediately either via police channels or through complaints at the official site.
“There is a tendency for people to want to get off the bus while it is moving or for adults and children to try boarding in the middle of the street. Responsibility is shared: on one hand, the driver who opens the door without pulling over; on the other hand, passengers who do not wait for the vehicle to stop,” said Martín Sánchez Agüero.
