Car rental in Santiago

Driving on Chilean roads while under the influence of alcohol is strongly prohibited. This can result in large fines and more serious consequences, including imprisonment.

Chilean highways are among the highest-quality roads in Latin America. However, you should be aware that you need to drive fast enough to keep up with the traffic, while still complying with traffic regulations and observing traffic lights.

• Santiago is known for having many road signs indicating the correct direction, which will help you understand the rules and navigate the streets of the capital.
• Seat belts must be fastened by both the driver and passengers when driving on the roads of Santiago.
• Be aware that local drivers often use hand gestures to indicate their intended direction or manoeuvre when driving.
• Speeding on the roads around Santiago is considered a serious offence. If there are no road signs in built-up areas you should not exceed 70 km/h. On highways, you may drive at up to 120 km/h if there are no junctions or built-up areas nearby.

If you violate traffic regulations, the local Carabineros may confiscate your driving licence. At the same time the motorist will receive an appointment with a judge, who will determine the amount of the fine. Do not attempt to bribe the Carabineros; this course of action is fraught with very serious consequences. Keep your licence and insurance with you at all times. It is always better to carry all documents, as roadside checks in Chile are common.

There are a sufficient number of filling stations in Santiago. However, fuel prices are considered to be quite high. This is true not only for the capital but for the entire country. At petrol stations you can buy diesel fuel and unleaded petrol. The average price per litre of fuel in Chile is $ 1.5.

• Travel on some Chilean routes of international importance requires payment of a toll. At the same time, before entering there is always a toll booth.
• The fare depends on the stretch of road and the region, and averages $ 1-6. In Santiago itself there are toll roads, and compliance with the rules for using them is monitored by security cameras. It is unlikely that you will be able to evade payment or violate the procedure.

If the driver is planning to travel on a toll road, an in-car electronic device must be installed. It is registered in a special system, with the vehicle owner's credit card number linked to it. When entering a toll section of road, the required amount will automatically be charged from the specified card.