Q COSTA RICA — Motorcyclists accounted for 247 deaths on Costa Rican roads between January and August 2026—a figure representing 58% of the 425 people who died at the scene of traffic accidents during that period, according to records from the Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MOPT).
This data identifies motorcyclists as the group with the highest number of fatalities on the country’s roads during the first eight months of the year.
This warning comes as the Organismo de Investigación Judicial (OIJ) identifies the behavior of certain motorcycle groups as a problem; these groups perform stunts, block the flow of other vehicles, and, in some cases, assault drivers who react to such conduct. Authorities stated that these actions could lead to traffic violations, administrative sanctions, or criminal investigations, depending on the circumstances of each incident.
Víctor Moreno, head of the Investigation Unit within the OIJ’s Section on Crimes against Physical Integrity and Traffic, stated that such groups have become a significant factor affecting road safety.
“The current trend involves groups of motorcyclists performing stunts and obstructing the free flow of traffic,” the official explained during a press conference.
Speeding was the leading cause associated with fatal accidents
MOPT data indicates that speeding was the cause associated with the highest number of traffic fatalities between January and August 2026, accounting for 146 deaths. Lane encroachment followed with 81 victims, while driver recklessness was linked to another 66 deaths recorded at the scene.
Official statistics make it possible to determine the number of people who died at the accident scene and the type of vehicle in which they were traveling. However, the records do not specify how many of the deceased motorcyclists were participating in illegal races, speeding, or performing dangerous maneuvers at the time of the crash.
The proportion of victims traveling by motorcycle reveals that nearly six out of every ten people who died in road accidents during the analyzed period were using this mode of transport. This finding aligns with the concern expressed by the OIJ regarding practices that can increase the risk not only for motorcyclists but also for other road users.
Stunts can cause accidents and affect other road users
Moreno explained that incidents linked to these groups are not limited to traffic obstruction or maneuvers performed on the road. The investigator noted situations where other drivers honk their horns due to the road being blocked and subsequently face aggression or damage to their vehicles.
“In many of these cases, people might honk at them, and it ends with the motorcycle riders assaulting drivers who are on their way home or to work, or damaging their vehicles,” Víctor Moreno said. This warning applies to those using the roads for personal or work-related travel who encounter difficulties continuing their journey.
The official also confirmed that some of the observed behaviors have already caused accidents with serious consequences. The risks extend to both those performing the maneuvers and those driving nearby, as a loss of control or encroachment into another’s space can affect more than one vehicle.
“There have been instances, for example, where they perform maneuvers prohibited by law, such as popping a wheelie,” Moreno noted. This refers to stunts involving riding on a single wheel—conduct not permitted under current legislation.
The police chief noted that a reform to the Traffic Law was approved this year, targeting individuals who use vehicles to perform stunts, tricks, and other maneuvers that go beyond standard driving practices. The regulations authorize authorities to intervene when such actions constitute a traffic violation or a criminal offense.
Administrative measures that may be applied include vehicle impoundment, though the decision depends on the specific circumstances of each case. Any potential criminal action would also depend on the conduct under investigation and the resulting consequences.
The OIJ has not yet conducted specific operations targeting these groups
Moreno acknowledged that illegal street races—known locally as ‘piques’—still occur in Costa Rica, though he maintained that they happen less frequently than in previous years. These events persist alongside groups that perform dangerous maneuvers or block the path of other vehicles.
The OIJ coordinates with the Traffic Police to conduct roadside alcohol checks. These efforts are part of a broader initiative to detect behaviors that endanger drivers, passengers, and pedestrians.
Despite this coordination, the investigator indicated that specific operations targeting groups involved in illegal racing or excessive speeding have not yet materialized. This official warning comes at a time when motorcyclists account for the majority of fatalities recorded at the scenes of traffic accidents during the first eight months of 2026.