Palmares Festival Begins Today, Transit Police Will Continue "Zero Tolerance" Against Drinking and Driving
Heading out to Palmares? Have fun, but don't drink and drive. That is the message by the Policía de Tránsito, that will have more than 120 officers on duty to during the festivities, that will also keep an eye on public transport.

Transit officials will be on full alert 24 hours a day until January 23 for inebriated drivers, as well as overcrowding of vehicles, especially public transport vehicles, seat belts and making sure the 2006 Marchamo is paid.

Palmares is second to the Zapote (San José) annual festivities, though some consider Palmares the better of the two. Following Palmares is the Puntarenas Festival which is at the end of the month.

Transit police are looking to avoid tragedies and want to continue their efforts of last year when their "zero tolerance" policy ensure no traffic fatalities. Like last year, a permanent stop check will be at the Naranjo toll station. However, those intent on evading that stop, will find themselves in the hands of other officials as all surrounding routes will also be target of spot checks.

Multiple spot checks are expected along the Bernardo Soto highway that leads to San José. Transit police urge the use of a designated driver or use public transportation to get to and from the festivities.

Drivers under the influence will have their vehicle and license impounded. Public transport vehicles, like small mini vans, will be fined and stopped from providing service is found to be over passenger capacity.

Transit police also recommend to wear reflective or bright clothing while walking at night.

Those on bicycles will be strictly be prohibited from pedaling along Route (Bernardo Soto) as it has been the custom in the past. The practice (bicycling) is not only dangerous but often fatal as traffic moves along the highway at more than the posted 80 kmh.