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   - Photo via Ministry of Public Transports -
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Published on Tuesday, December 20,
2022
By the A.M. Costa Rica staff
As of November, police identified 2,278 positive DUI drivers with more than 0.75 grams of alcohol in their systems, according to the Ministry of Public Transports.
These drivers committed the "A-Level" fine, meaning they were arrested and their vehicles were impounded. Drivers also have to pay a fine of approximately $560, plus take a penalty of 6 points on their driving 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.
Also, police stopped and fined another 292 drivers with blood alcohol levels between 0.20 and 0.75 grams. They were not arrested but must pay the same $560 fine plus the penalty of 6 points on their driving record.
A total of 314 drivers tested with a very low blood-alcohol level. They did not receive any sanction.
Police have applied over 15,000 DUI tests, authorities said.
According to the ministry, the money generated by collecting the fines is used to cover the Traffic Police expenses, road safety campaign expenses, traffic sign maintenance and Red Cross aid among others.
Recently police announced that on January 1, 2023, there will be a 10% increase in fines for breaking traffic laws. The increase was approved by the Court Superior Council, based on the Consumer Price Index.
Authorities have eased up on driving restrictions within the capital. There are not restriction on vehicle plate numbers in San José City during the holidays. Drivers with any license plate number are free to move on any weekday in the city.
Recently, police reported over 400 deaths caused by traffic accidents. That marks 112 more than the 290 deaths reported in the same period last year.
Last year, over 300 people died 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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