To ensure a smooth and safe journey, it’s essential to understand the country’s road signs. Costa Rican traffic signs follow international standards but are written in Spanish. Here’s a breakdown of the most important road signs you’ll encounter, categorized for easy reference.
Regulation Signs (Señales de Regulación)
Regulation signs in Costa Rica are designed to enforce rules and restrictions, ensuring the safety of all drivers and pedestrians. These signs demand close attention, as ignoring them can lead to fines or accidents.
What They Look Like:
- Background: White
- Shape: Usually vertical rectangles
- Symbols and Words: Red and Black
Top 3 Most Common Regulation Signs:
- “Alto” (Stop): A red, octagonal sign requiring drivers to come to a complete stop.
- “Ceda el paso” (Yield): Triangular with a red border, instructing drivers to yield to oncoming traffic.
- “Velocidad máxima” (Maximum Speed Limit): A white sign with black numbers indicating the speed limit in kilometers per hour.
Other Regulation Signs to Know:
- “No estacionar” (No Parking): A red circle with a crossed-out “E.”
- “Prohibido adelantar” (No Overtaking): A red circle with two cars side by side, one crossed out.
- “Prohibido girar” (No Turning): A red circle with an arrow indicating a direction crossed out.
Permanent Prevention Signs (Señales de Prevención Permanentes)
Prevention signs warn of permanent road hazards or conditions that requires caution.
What They Look Like:
- Background: Yellow
- Shape: Usually diamond-shaped
- Symbols: Black
Top 3 Permanent Prevention Signs
- “Curva Peligrosa” (Dangerous Curve): Alerts drivers of sharp curves ahead.
- “Puente Angosto” (Narrow Bridge): Indicates a single-lane or narrow bridge.
- “Peatones en la Vía” (Pedestrians on the Road): Warns that pedestrians may be crossing or walking along the road.
Other Permanent Prevention Signs
- “Reducción de Carril” (Lane Reduction): Warns of a narrowing road.
- “Animales en la Vía” (Animals on the Road): Indicates possible livestock or wildlife crossings.
- “Zona Escolar” (School Zone): Cautions drivers to reduce speed and watch for children.
Prevention Signs for Road Work (Señales de Prevención por Trabajo en Progreso)
These signs indicate ongoing construction or roadwork and warn drivers to exercise caution. They are often orange or yellow.
What They Look Like:
- Background: Orange
- Shape: Usually diamond-shaped
- Symbols: Black
Top 3 Road Work Signs
- “Trabajos en la Vía” (Work in Progress): Indicates active construction or maintenance ahead.
- “Desvío” (Detour): Signals an alternate route due to roadwork.
- “Hombres Trabajando” (Men at Work): Alerts drivers to workers on or near the road.
Other Road Work Signs
- “Zona en Reparación” (Repair Zone): Warns of ongoing repairs.
- “Máquinas Trabajando” (Machines at Work): Indicates heavy machinery in the area.
- “Cuidado, Material Suelto” (Caution, Loose Material): Warns of gravel or loose debris on the road.
Information Signs (Señales Informativas)
These signs provide useful details about locations, services, and points of interest.
What They Look Like:
- Background: Blue
- Shape: Usually rectangular
- Symbols: White
Places
- “Aeropuerto” (Airport): nearest airport
- “Estación de Servicio” (Gas Station): Indicates the location of fuel stations.
- “Hospital” (Hospital): Shows the location of a nearby hospital or clinic.
Tourism
- “Parque Nacional” (National Park): Guides visitors to a national park or protected area.
- “Mirador” (Scenic Viewpoint): Indicates a designated spot to enjoy scenic views.
- “Zona Turística” (Tourism Area): Warns drivers that they’re entering a popular tourist destination.
Why Understanding Road Signs Matters
Costa Rica’s roads can be a mix of smooth highways, winding mountain routes, and unpaved paths. Knowing these signs will not only keep you safe but also help you enjoy the journey. Whether you’re headed to a remote waterfall, national park, or scenic beach.
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