Tourist Information Chile - D |
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Driving
See also Rental Cars.
Santiago traffic is not for the faint of heart, or inexperienced drivers. If you decide to join the fray, drive defensively to deal with the aggressive Chilean way of driving, and do not expect any slack. It's important to plan any route you have to drive beforehand. Santiago's streets are confusing, poorly sign-posted, and strewn with potholes. On some of the major thoroughfares, the driving direction will change depending on rush hour traffic, and on days with smog warning levels of Pre-emergencia or Emergencia, even vehicles with catalytic converters can be banned from driving depending on their license plate numbers (announced in the media).
In cities, the speed limit is 60 km/h, and on the highway it is 120 km/h - and you wouldn't want to drive any faster anyway, given the state of most roads. Speeds are checked often, especially on highways and freeways, punishment is harsh and involves a frequently tiresome bureaucratic procedure.
Gas (93, 95 or 97 octane) is about USD 1.00 per liter, and it gets more expensive the further you are from the capital. On the major roads leading out of Santiago as well as on some portions of the Panamericana, you have to pay toll at a station (approx. USD 3.00, double that on weekends). The Panamericana is currently being expanded north and south of Santiago to turn it into a modern two-to-three-lane freeway with the addition of more toll stations.
Before you drive off into the unknown, it's a good idea to inquire about road conditions. Most secondary roads are not paved, and gravel roads of widely varying quality can deteriorate, especially from long rains. Less experienced drivers should be especially cautious on such roads. It is a good idea to carry a second spare tire for longer tours on gravel.
When parking the vehicle, make sure that nothing left is visible from the outside, especially in cities. The informal and semi-formal parking lot attendants cannot always be trusted. Find secure parking for your car at night.
Important: always carry car documents, passport and driver's license with you! If you have questions or run into problems, turn to one of the numerous police stations (Carabineros, see Police).
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