Summary of New Vehicle and Traffic Law 22 of Puerto Rico

This is a special issue dealing with the new Vehicle and Traffic Law #22 of Puerto Rico. This new law was activated on January 7, 2001 and substituted Law 141 of July 20, 1960.

It is organized in Chapters and Articles and has among its most important purposes, to promote safety in public highways, simplify and quickly consider citizens’ actions with the government offices and modify the law to the latest scientific and technological advances in the transportation field.

Chapters 1 to 3 define terms related to the registration of motor vehicles, the authorization to use public roads, and the requirements for obtaining a driver’s license.

Other chapters present information on:

• Provisions on traffic accidents, speeds and vehicular traffic,

• Driving motor vehicles under the influence of controlled substances and alcohol,

• Specifications for signs, traffic signals and markings,

• Use of bicycles, vehicle’s inspections and the use of safety belts.

Law 22 also includes provisions about motor vehicles, including their dimensions, weight, and cargo. It also establishes and determines parameters for:

Fines and citations Driving school Auto rentals Renovation of licenses and notifications of sentences State and local powers Highway toll booths and limitations of their use Collection of rights Exclusive lanes

The rest of this newsletter will describe the basic changes to the driver’s license and the new speed limits and provide the new parking fines and other penalties in tabular form.