Driving Rules in Ecuador
Tips, Laws, and Local Insights for a Smooth Drive Around Ecuador
Driving Laws in Ecuador
Speed Limits
The speed limits in Quito for light vehicles are 70 km / h in urban areas. 90 km / h on the highway and 120 km / h on motorways
Traffic Lights
The city of Quito, like most of the important cities in Ecuador, is very well signposted, especially in the most central parts of the city and with more traffic, where you will find a large number of traffic lights.
In rural areas you can find traffic lights more sporadically.
Road Side
In Quito, as in all of Ecuador, you travel on the right side of the road. The left side is only used to pass another vehicle.
Where and how to park in Ecuador?
There are several areas that have free parking on the road. You can park in these places as long as you do not violate the traffic laws that regulate parking. Park as long as a vertical sign does not prohibit it or there is no yellow line on the sidewalk. In shopping centers and hotel areas you can find parking with parking meters or ticket machines and covere. There are other places, such as the beach area or vacant lots where you will find improvised or irregular parking lots that offer parking service.
They are cheaper, although they are not as reliable as official regulated parking. Security and parking Although Quito is not an area that is characterized by theft, you should take into account basic rules to avoid the theft of your car or its accessories.
- Never leave your vehicle keys in the switch of your vehicle.
- Leave your car windows closed.
- Do not park in remote areas or where there is little traffic of people.
- Do not leave your car in poorly lit streets at night
Disabled parking: In several places you can find exclusive parking areas for the disabled in Quito, however, it is not a culture that is widespread throughout the city. If you have a disability, it may be difficult to find parking.
Talking to the parking attendant may be helpful in finding a better area to park your car. Prevent your car from being towed for being badly parked Be careful to avoid obstructing the traffic or the exit of other vehicles, as well as not blocking garage exits, building entrances, etc. to prevent your car from being towed. Although these incidents are rare, they can occur, especially when it comes to a traffic obstruction.