Nostalgia Night in Uruguay is not only one of the most anticipated celebrations of the year, it's also one of the busiest days for traffic. Every August 24th, thousands of people travel to parties, clubs, social clubs, and private gatherings. This increased mobility brings with it a greater risk of traffic accidents , which is why the National Road Safety Unit (UNASEV), together with the Highway Police, are preparing a special operation on roads and in cities across the country.
The magnitude of the Night of Nostalgia in Uruguay
Nostalgia has become a unique cultural event. While in other countries, August 24th may be just another day, in Uruguay it's a true tradition: a night to remember music from the past, reconnect with friends, and relive past times. Since its inception in the 1970s, this celebration has grown to become one of the biggest nightlife events on the calendar.
This massive nature also represents a challenge for road safety . Thousands of cars on the road, drivers consuming alcohol or cannabis, and a euphoric atmosphere make the date a critical time for traffic.
Special controls: 40 strategic points throughout the country
The national director of Highway Patrol (Caminera), Luis Calzada , confirmed that 40 checkpoints on national routes. These checkpoints will be supported by departmental headquarters , with the goal of covering the main traffic arteries.
The procedures will include:
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Breathalyzer tests using spirometry.
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Tests for cannabis and other drug use in drivers.
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Speed and documentation inspection.
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Supervision of access to cities and high-traffic routes.
According to Calzada, the purpose is to prevent accidents and save lives , rather than to impose penalties.
A call to civic responsibility
The message from the authorities is clear: "If you drink, don't drive ." The recommendation is that each group celebrating should designate a responsible driver . This role is essential to reducing risks, as it allows others to enjoy themselves without endangering their safety or that of others.
Unasev's general secretary, Fernanda Artagaveytia , announced that the municipalities will conduct an awareness campaign in the days leading up to the holiday, reinforcing the idea that Nostalgia should be a time of enjoyment, not tragedy.
Alcohol and drugs: a latent risk on the roads
Alcohol and cannabis use are among the leading causes of traffic accidents in Uruguay. According to data from Unasev, more than 30% of serious accidents during holidays are related to substance use.
The use of flashes on cameras , loud music inside vehicles, excessive speed, and fatigue are all factors that aggravate the situation. Therefore, authorities emphasize that the combination of alcohol and driving is deadly .
The importance of coordinated operations
The Highway Patrol doesn't work alone. The strategy includes coordination with:
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Departmental administrations , which provide teams of inspectors.
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Police Headquarters , with logistical support on secondary routes.
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Ministry of the Interior , which provides resources for inspection.
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Health centers , prepared to respond to emergencies.
This comprehensive approach seeks to cover not only national routes, but also access to cities and urban areas where festivals are concentrated.
Nostalgia Night and road safety: a complex equation
Each edition of Nostalgia reopens the debate on how to balance fun and safety . On the one hand, the event boosts the economy, creates jobs in the gastronomy and tourism sectors, and has established itself as a cultural icon. On the other hand, the high number of traffic accidents requires increasingly robust preventive policies.
The key is to make citizens understand that road safety is a shared responsibility . The authorities enforce the controls, but the real decision rests with each driver.
Legal consequences of driving under the influence
In addition to the life-threatening risks, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs carries heavy fines, loss of points on your driving license, and even disqualification . In serious cases, legal action if the accident results in injuries or death.
The minimum fine for a positive spirometry test is around 20 UR , equivalent to several thousand Uruguayan pesos. The financial cost is compounded by the emotional and legal impact of an avoidable traffic accident.
The role of society in prevention
Beyond the work of Caminera and Unasev, social awareness is the decisive factor. Each person can prevent tragedies with simple decisions:
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Plan how to get home before you leave.
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Use public transportation or ride-hailing apps.
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Respect the speed limits.
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Do not pressure others to drive if they have been drinking.
Nostalgia Night 2024 may be remembered for music and gatherings, or for fatal accidents. The choice is in the hands of the citizens themselves.
Conclusion
Nostalgia Night in Uruguay is much more than a celebration: it's a demonstration of collective responsibility. With 40 checkpoints, awareness campaigns, and strict enforcement , authorities aim to ensure that August 24th is celebrated joyfully, without tragedies on the roads.
And you, have you already thought about how you're going to organize your safe return that night? 🚦
