From Wikitravel

For future reference the Wikitravel:CIA World Factbook 2002 import can be found at Talk:Costa Rica/CIA World Factbook 2002 import

---

Traffic

How dangerous is the traffic exactly, when I went round CR the traffic seemed pretty good really, didn't see anything approaching an incident. Is this based on some source that gives it a basis or just an impression?

• This is Tom Croke (aka Frog One) although I am not logged in. Tico drivers are pretty erratic, ignore stop signs, wrong way on one way streets. On the road down to the Pacific Ocean, a two lane winding highway, pulling out and passing in places we Amaricans would consider dangerous is commonplace.

• In addition, streets and even main highways are not well marked. Figuring out where you are going can distract from the job of defensive driving.

• I drive comfortably in Boston. I have not yet driven in Costa Rica, although I would now do so, after several trips there.

• I've lived in Costa Rica for almost 18 years and driving requires you to be VERY alert. Outside San Jose it's usually OK since there is less traffic. When you drive, remember that every Tico basically drives as if he/she were alone on the road, while talking on his/her cell phone, watching a pretty (or any girl) and avoiding potholes.

201.225.238.10 10:40, 13 Nov 2005 (EST) Thorwald Westmaas