Fines for traffic violations in the province of Córdoba have increased due to the recent rise in gasoline prices. Traffic Law 8.560 establishes penalties in Fixed Units (UF), with values ranging from 20 to 100 UF for minor violations, such as running red lights or exceeding speed limits. More serious fines, between 100 and 200 UF for cases like driving while smoking, range from $126,500 to $253,000.
In the case of not having the headlights on, penalties can reach up to 400 UF, with amounts ranging from $506,000 to $2,530,000. Regarding violations that have maximum costs, these range between 1,200 and 2,000 UF, representing penalties from $25,300 to $126,500.
A survey was conducted asking the population about certain traffic regulations. A low percentage answered correctly about the prohibition of driving barefoot or with flip-flops in some provinces like Mendoza, while the majority were unaware of these provisions. The survey also revealed that most respondents consider it more dangerous to drive this way and that there are less-known regulations for tourists in certain provinces.
The Traffic Law in Córdoba specifies that, in addition to traditional violations, such as using a cellphone while driving, fines can also be imposed for less common actions, such as drinking mate, smoking, or driving with flip-flops. Although there is no specific national legislation regarding this, some provinces impose penalties for these practices. For example, in Mendoza, one can receive a fine of up to $420,000 for drinking mate while driving.
One explanation given for the prohibition of mate while driving is that this practice can lead to dangerous distractions due to its side effects, such as spills that could cause accidents. The National Road Safety Agency considers mate one of the main distracting factors while driving, although it is not considered an infraction in national legislation. However, in some Argentine provinces, such as Mendoza, driving with flip-flops or barefoot is penalized, with fines that can reach considerable amounts.
