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Nobody plans for an accident, but knowing the Costa Rican procedure in advance makes a stressful moment much easier. It’s different from the US and Canada in one important way: you usually shouldn’t move the cars.
Quick answer: Make sure everyone is safe, call 911, call your rental company’s emergency number, and wait for the traffic police and the insurance inspector before moving the vehicles (unless police tell you otherwise). Don’t sign anything you don’t understand and don’t make private cash deals.
Step by step
- Safety first. Turn on hazard lights, place the warning triangle, and move people (not cars) to a safe place.
- Call 911 if anyone is hurt or traffic is blocked. Operators can connect you with English speakers.
- Call your rental company. Their emergency number is on the contract or a sticker in the car. They’ll coordinate the insurance inspector.
- Don’t move the vehicles until the traffic police (Tránsito) and the insurance inspector arrive, unless authorities instruct you to. Moving the car can complicate or void your coverage.
- Document everything. Photos of both cars, plates, the scene, and the other driver’s license and insurance details.
- Get the police report (the traffic officer’s documentation). Your rental company will need it.
Avoid cash settlements. Sometimes the other driver will offer to “fix it privately”. Your rental contract and insurance generally require the official process.
How insurance applies
Mandatory liability insurance covers damage to the other party. Damage to your rental is covered by CDW (minus the deductible) or by your credit card’s coverage, which you claim afterwards. Our insurance guide explains the difference.
Minor issues: flats and breakdowns
For a flat tire or breakdown, call the rental company’s roadside number. Tire shops (“llanteras”) in every town fix punctures cheaply.
Bottom line
Stay calm, call 911 and your rental company, don’t move the cars until authorities arrive, and document everything.
Frequently asked questions
What number do I call for an accident in Costa Rica?
911 for emergencies, then your rental company's emergency line.
Should I move my car after an accident in Costa Rica?
Generally no — wait for the traffic police and the insurance inspector unless authorities instruct you to move it.
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