Automobile Restrictions and Accidents

In an effort to alleviate traffic congestion and pollution, the government enacted a program restricting automobile use based on license plate numbering. The law states that people caught driving their cars on specific “forbidden dates” will have their automobiles impounded and a hefty fine imposed. This restriction applies equally to foreign-owned automobiles. In most cases, the police officer will ask you for a mordida (bribe or small payoff), which will allow you to forgo the impounding and a larger fine.

Restriction dates are as follows:

• Monday – plates with last digit 5 or 6 cannot be driven.
• Tuesday – plates with last digit 7 or 8 cannot be driven.
• Wednesday – plates with last digit 3 or 4 cannot be driven.
• Thursday – plates with last digit 1 or 2 cannot be driven.
• Friday – plates with last digit 9, 0 or a letter cannot be driven.
• Saturday and Sunday – no restrictions.