Legal Matters

Ecuador has a zero-tolerance policy for possession of illegal drugs of any amount. Previously, possession of up to 10 grams of cannabis and up to two grams of cocaine did not result in criminal charges, but this is no longer the case – the use or trafficking of drugs is a punishable offense that could result in imprisonment; and a scale is used to differentiate between users, micro-traffickers and large-scale traffickers when handing down prison sentences.

Drivers should carry their passport, as well as their driver’s license. In the event of an accident, unless it’s extremely minor, the vehicles should stay where they are until the police arrive and make a report. This is essential for all insurance claims. If the accident results in injury and you are unhurt, you should take the victim to obtain medical help, particularly in the case of a pedestrian accident. You are legally responsible for a pedestrian’s injuries and will be jailed unless you pay, even if the accident was not your fault. Drive defensively.

Note that it is a jailable offense to drive without insurance in Ecuador, so unfortunately, uninsured drivers involved in accidents often keep going.