Driving in Guatemala vs. Panama: Key Safety Differences
When exploring the roads of Guatemala and Panama, understanding their distinctive driving norms is crucial for ensuring safety. Key contrasts include the presence of bus lanes and speed limits, with Panama adopting a more structured approach. Familiarizing yourself with these variations will enhance your travel experience and promote secure navigation in both countries.
Driving Side
The driving side in guatemala is the Right Side of the road
Driving Safety Score
The driving Driving Safety Score in guatemala is 63
Gas Price in USD
The driving Driving Safety Score for guatemala is 1.087 US Dollars
While the driving side of a country remains the same, the driving safety score is updated annually based on each countries car accident fatality rate. Lastly, the gas price is only an estimate. Due to frequent fluctuations, it serves as a general reference rather than an exact figure for each country.
Lanes
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| Guatemala | Panama | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Bus Lanes: Presence | No | Yes | |
| Bus Lanes: Usage | N/A | Reserved for buses and sometimes taxis. | |
| Bus Lanes: Markings | N/A | Labeled 'BUS' or 'BUS ONLY'; often with road signs. | |
| Cycle Lanes: Presence | Limited | Yes, in some urban areas | |
| Cycle Lanes: Usage | Shared with vehicles in some areas. | Exclusive for bicycles. | |
| Cycle Lanes: Markings | Varies by location. | Bicycle symbols and often separated by barriers. |
Speeds Limits
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| Guatemala | Panama | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Urban Areas: Residential Zones | 30 km/h | 25-30 km/h | |
| Rural Areas: Cars And Motorcycles | 80 km/h | 80-100 km/h | |
| Rural Areas: Buses And Vans | 70 km/h | 80-100 km/h | |
| Rural Areas: Trucks And Trailers | 70 km/h | 70-80 km/h | |
| Highways: Cars And Motorcycles | 100 km/h | 100-120 km/h | |
| Highways: Buses And Vans | 90 km/h | 80-100 km/h | |
| Highways: Trucks And Trailers | 80 km/h | 70-90 km/h | |
| Enforcement: Speed Cameras | Limited use | Yes | |
| Enforcement: On-the- Spot Fines | Yes, common practice | Common |
Signals
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| Guatemala | Panama | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Traffic Lights: Red And Amber Together | Not used in Guatemala | Not used in Panama | |
| Horn Usage: Prohibited Times | Unnecessary use discouraged; local ordinances may apply | Unnecessary use discouraged, especially in urban areas | |
| Traffic Signs: Warning | Triangle-shaped with red border | Diamond-shaped with yellow background |
Turns
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| Guatemala | Panama | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Right Turn On Red | Varies, check local signs for permission | Generally not allowed |
Documentation
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| Guatemala | Panama | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Driver's License: Foreign: E U/ E E A | International Driving Permit recommended | International Driving Permit recommended; national license accepted for short stays | |
| Driver's License: Foreign: Non- E U | International Driving Permit recommended | International Driving Permit recommended; national license accepted for short stays | |
| Vehicle Inspection: Requirement | Mandatory; proof may be required | Mandatory every two years for new cars | |
| Vehicle Inspection: Sticker | Displayed on the vehicle | Displayed on windshield | |
| Emergency Equipment: Reflective Vest | Mandatory | Recommended |
Road Etiquette
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| Guatemala | Panama | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Use Of Horn: Cultural Norm | More frequent use compared to some countries | Frequent use, especially in urban areas |
When exploring the roads of Guatemala and Panama, understanding their distinctive driving norms is crucial for ensuring safety. Key contrasts include the presence of bus lanes and speed limits, with Panama adopting a more structured approach. Familiarizing yourself with these variations will enhance your travel experience and promote secure navigation in both countries.
Alcohol
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| Guatemala | Panama | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Limits: General Drivers | 0.05% | 0.08% | |
| Limits: Professional Drivers | 0.00% | 0.04% | |
| Limits: Underage Drivers | 0.00% | 0.00% (zero tolerance) | |
| Enforcement: Random Checks | Common, especially at night | Common, especially during weekends | |
| Enforcement: Fines | Varies by locality; can be substantial | Varies; can be substantial |
Emergency Services
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| Guatemala | Panama | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Contact: General Emergency | 122 | 911 | |
| Contact: Traffic Police | 110 | 104 | |
| Contact: Roadside Assistance | Check with your insurance provider | Contact insurance provider or services like Autorama | |
| Emergency Equipment: Reflective Vest | Mandatory | Recommended |
Penalties And Fines
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| Guatemala | Panama | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Common Fines: Speeding | Varies; substantial fines | Varies; $50 to $150, points on license | |
| Common Fines: Seat Belts | Fines imposed | $25 to $75 | |
| Common Fines: Phone Use | Fines imposed | Varies; fines and points on license | |
| Common Fines: Traffic Light Violation | Substantial fines | $50 to $150, points on license | |
| Payment: On The Spot | Yes, often required | Rare; fines usually paid at designated locations | |
| Payment: Deadline | Varies; check with local authorities | Varies; typically 30 days to pay |