The Traffic Police announced on Mar. 24 that they will prioritize controls on speeding, drunk driving, and illegal overtaking during the upcoming Holy Week period from March 29 to April 5.
This initiative aims to reduce road accidents and fatalities during a time when many people travel for holidays. The authorities said daily checkpoints will be set up at various times of day, with special attention given to speeding and alcohol consumption behind the wheel. Recently acquired breathalyzers will be used in these operations.
Martín Sánchez Agüero, director of the Traffic Police, said: “We will always prioritize prevention. Some people say we only focus on sanctions, but by removing a drunk driver or stopping someone who is speeding from the road, we are preventing risks and reducing the chance that person continues their journey and causes a fatality.” He added: “Unfortunately, some people do not want to take good advice seriously and continue making reckless decisions on the road.”
The main highways under increased surveillance include Interamericana North and South (national routes 1 and 2), route 27 (San José-Caldera), route 32 (Braulio Carrillo/San José-Limón), as well as Costanera Sur (route 34). There will also be police presence throughout the country. The operation is divided into phases: first supporting travelers leaving Greater Metropolitan Area; then monitoring tourist destinations; finally facilitating return traffic after holidays.
Sánchez also highlighted: “Speeding abuse and illegal overtaking are consolidated as the two main causes of road deaths—44 cases for speed abuse and 22 for improper overtaking in just two months. Both are related to being in a hurry; that’s why we urge patience, prudence, slowing down literally and metaphorically these days.”
Other measures include checks for excess passengers or luggage in vehicles, monitoring public transport for overloading or unauthorized service offers, enforcing bans against driving onto beaches with vehicles due to safety concerns, mechanical inspections before trips—especially tire conditions—and reminders about proper use of seat belts or child restraint devices by all occupants.
The campaign extends to urban areas like San José and provincial capitals with support around religious activities typical of this season. Authorities advise drivers not to search for destinations while driving nor carry pets unsecured in laps. They also warn against cycling or walking under influence of alcohol near roads.
