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Salta Enforces Law Requiring Intoxicated Drivers Who Cause Crashes to Pay Hospital Costs

Officials say the rule eases pressure on the public health system by reinforcing personal responsibility.

Overview

  • Governor Gustavo Sáenz said the province will apply the measure to recent alcohol-related crashes and bill the drivers for their medical care.
  • Law 8.477, promoted in December 2024, makes anyone who causes a crash while intoxicated pay for hospital stays, medicines, and treatments in the public system.
  • Sáenz pointed to two serious cases in Salta, a rollover on the ring road and a car that fell from a city access road, where the drivers were drunk and will be charged for care.
  • The governor framed the policy as zero tolerance on road safety and as a way to stop shifting large medical bills to all residents.
  • El Tribuno reported 28 traffic deaths so far in 2026 in Salta, a stark backdrop for the province’s push to deter drunk driving.