Road safety initiatives in Guatemala and Bolivia

Regional authorities in Guatemala and Bolivia have launched initiatives to promote road safety and reduce traffic fatalities. In Guatemala, the Guatemalan Social Security Institute (IGSS) has recommended preventive habits, such as vehicle inspections of brakes, tires, and lights, alongside the mandatory use of seatbelts and certified helmets.

In Bolivia, the Departmental Directorate of Transit, Transport, and Road Safety organized a caravan in Oruro to advocate for mandatory helmet use among motorcyclists.

Following these initiatives, the IGSS issued further warnings due to high injury and fatality statistics. Data from the National Transit Security Observatory showed 920 deaths and 3,927 injuries between January and July 2026. Within IGSS services, nearly 24,000 patients were treated for accidents through August, with motorcyclists representing 21,890 of those cases. To mitigate risks like speeding and distracted driving, officials continue to urge the use of protective gear and adherence to speed limits. Additionally, safety guidelines were issued regarding the risks of animal collisions, advising drivers to brake firmly rather than swerving to avoid head-on collisions.