Discovering Costa Rica

Page 28

Fuel

In Coast Rica, gas is called

gasolina

and gas stations are referred to as

bombas

gasolineras

Gas stations can be difficult to find outside of the cities in Costa Rica, so make sure to locate

the one that is nearest to you and fill up before heading out of town. Gas prices are regulated by

the government and are the same at every gas station across the country. All gas stations are

full-service, meaning attendants pump the gas for you. Tipping is at the discretion of the driver.

Insurance and Assistance

In Case of Accident

Call “Policía de Tránsito” PH: 2222-9390/2222-9245, or 911. Call “Instituto Nacional de

Seguros” Departamento de Accidentes de Tránsito PH: 800-800-8000

Do not move the car from the place where the accident occurred until the traffic officer

asks you to do so

If there are witnesses of the accident write down their names and phone numbers in

order to locate them later

Ask the other driver for personal and car information: Name, phone number, ID number,

license plates, and brand and color of the car

Do not talk about details of the accident with anyone; only tell the traffic officer

Do not permit any tow-truck to take the car away until the traffic officer allows you to

Make sure to ask the traffic officer for the three copies of the accident report

Vehicle Insurance – INS

Collision, fire, theft, personal liability, and property damage coverage can be purchased from the

Instituto Nacional de Seguros and other private insurance companies. Once your car is insured,

anyone with a valid driver’s license is permitted to drive it.

Child Safety Regulations

Car seat laws in Costa Rica are stricter than those in other countries, notably the United States.

Be sure to check with your Dwellworks Consultant to verify that the below information is

accurate and current.

Costa Rican Transit Law specifically requires to use security devices (child safety seats) to

transport children less than 12 years of age. This regulation dictates parents (and those who

regularly transport minors),

must use

the required device needed based on age, weight and

height of the child; it also dictates where in the vehicle, these devices should be located.