Disobeying a traffic cop could soon land you in prison

October 9^th, 2012 – The next time a traffic officer flags you down, you’d be best advised to listen.  The new Ley de Transito (Traffic Act) now makes disobeying a traffic officer a criminal offense under the Penal Code, with a potential sentence of 1 to 3 years in prison.

Under the previous law, drivers faced only a 5,000-colon fine.

Another change under the new Ley de Transito is the manner in which improperly parked cars are handled.  Under the new law, improperly parked vehicles will be towed and impounded, rather than receive a ticket.

The new Ley de Transito could come into effect as early as next week.