Colombia & Peru: Understanding the SOAT (Seguro Obligatorio de Accidentes de Tránsito)

When you’re cruising through Bogotá’s buzzing streets or rolling along Lima’s oceanfront highways, there’s one paper you must keep in your car: the SOAT. Think of it as a superhero insurance card—it jumps in to cover medical costs if there’s a crash, no matter who’s at fault.

Here’s the cool part: SOAT isn’t just for drivers. It protects passengers and even pedestrians. In Colombia and Peru, millions depend on it, but most people barely know how it actually works. That’s where this guide comes in.

What is SOAT? The Foundation of Road Safety Protection

SOAT is like a safety net every car in Colombia and Peru must carry. It doesn’t fix dents or scratches—that’s what regular car insurance is for. Instead, SOAT steps in to cover people: drivers, passengers, even pedestrians. If there’s an accident, it pays for medical care or compensation right away, no arguing about whose fault it was. Imagine tripping at a soccer game and instantly having someone pay your hospital bill—that’s how SOAT works on the road.

The Historical Context and Legal Framework

Peru rolled out SOAT in 2002 after passing a transport law a few years earlier. Since then, it’s been the guarantee that victims get treated fast, no questions asked. Colombia runs on the same principles, with strict rules and yearly price checks by the financial authorities. In both countries, SOAT isn’t just another paper—it’s proof the system cares more about saving lives than pointing fingers.

SOAT Coverage: What’s Protected and What’s Not

If you’re rolling through the streets of Bogotá or cruising Lima’s highways, knowing what SOAT actually covers is like knowing which safety gear keeps you alive on a skateboard—it’s super important. SOAT protects people, not things, so let’s break it down.

Covered Benefits in Both Countries

Medical and Healthcare Coverage:

Pays for doctor visits, surgeries, hospital stays, and medications after a traffic accident
Covers emergency room treatments and any surgical procedures you might need
Includes physical therapy and rehab to get you back on your feet

Death and Disability Compensation:

Helps families if someone dies or gets seriously injured in an accident
Covers funeral costs and disability payments based on how bad the injuries are
Provides income support for families of victims

Additional Services:

Pays for getting to hospitals or clinics if you’re hurt
Covers ambulance rides and other emergency medical transport

What SOAT Does NOT Cover

SOAT is amazing for people, but it won’t fix your car:

2025 SOAT Rates and Pricing Structure

Colombia SOAT Rates 2025

The 2025 SOAT rates were tweaked — some vehicles even saw lower prices than in 2024. Here’s the breakdown so you can picture what people are actually paying:

Motorcycles:

Motorcycles over 200cc: about $758,600 COP (down from $830,100 COP in 2024) — imagine your uncle’s big bike finally getting a cheaper annual bill.
Motorcycles under 200cc: roughly $400,000–$500,000 COP.
Motorcycles under 125cc: roughly $300,000–$400,000 COP.

Private Vehicles:

Small cars (up to 1,400cc): roughly $500,000–$650,000 COP — think of the compact hatchback your neighbour uses to run errands.
Medium cars (1,401–2,000cc): roughly $650,000–$800,000 COP.
Large cars and SUVs: roughly $800,000–$1,200,000 COP.

Commercial Vehicles:

Taxis and ride-share cars pay more because they’re on the road non-stop.
Cargo trucks: prices change depending on weight and how they’re used.
Public transport: premiums are higher to reflect the number of passengers.

Peru SOAT Rates 2025

In Peru, the SOAT amounts for 2025 are simpler and a bit higher than last year:

Current Peru SOAT Pricing:

Private cars: S/ 500 (about $135 USD) — picture a small fee that keeps lots of people moving safely.
Motorcycles: S/ 250 (about $67 USD).
Commercial vehicles: rates vary by type and usage.
Public transportation: higher premiums because buses and colectivos carry many people.

The Peruvian pricing uses the UIT (Unidad Impositiva Tributaria) to calculate compensation amounts. For accidents that happen in 2025, the UIT value used is S/ 5,350 — basically the benchmark number insurers reference when figuring payouts.

Legal Requirements and Penalties

Colombia

Compliance and Enforcement

In Colombia, driving without a valid SOAT is like trying to skateboarding without a helmet—you’re risking big trouble. If your SOAT isn’t current or you don’t have it at all, you could get hit with a fine of 30 minimum daily legal wages, which is about $1,300,000 COP in 2024 terms. That’s not pocket change! On top of that, your car could get immobilized, meaning you’ll pay extra for a tow and storage. And if there’s an accident? You’d be on the hook for all medical costs without insurance to back you up.

Penalties for Non-Compliance:

Fine: 30 minimum daily legal wages (~$1,300,000 COP)
Vehicle immobilization
Extra costs for towing and parking
Full legal responsibility for accident expenses

Peru

Legal Consequences

In Peru, SOAT isn’t optional—it’s mandatory for all vehicles driving on public roads. Skipping it is like leaving your bike unlocked in the middle of a busy street; you’re just asking for trouble.

Penalties:

Fines from 0.5 to 2 UIT (S/ 2,675 to S/ 10,700 in 2025)
Vehicle retention until you show proof of insurance
Personal responsibility for all medical expenses if an accident happens
Potential criminal charges in serious accidents with no coverage

Coverage Limits and Compensation Amounts

Colombia Coverage Limits 2025

Think of Colombia’s SOAT like a backpack full of lifesaving gear—you can’t carry everything, but what’s inside is super important. Coverage is based on UVT (Unidades de Valor Tributario):

Medical Expenses:

Pays for doctor visits, surgeries, medicines, and hospital stays up to 263.13 UVT
Emergency treatment? Covered up to the full medical limit
Ongoing treatments? Only as needed and within coverage limits

Death Compensation:

Fixed payouts if someone dies in an accident
Covers funeral costs
Includes family support benefits

Disability Compensation:

Permanent disability: money based on how severe the injury is
Temporary disability: income replacement while recovering
Pays for medical equipment and rehab to get people back on their feet

Peru Coverage Limits 2025

In Peru, SOAT works like a safety net that uses UIT values to calculate payouts:

Medical Coverage:

Emergency medical costs up to 5 UIT per person
Hospitalization, surgeries, medication, and medical supplies
Rehab services included

Death Benefits:

4 UIT for deaths caused by traffic accidents
Funeral expense coverage
Extra support for dependents

Disability Benefits:

Permanent disability: up to 4 UIT compensation
Temporary disability support during recovery
Pays for medical equipment and adaptive devices

How to Purchase SOAT Insurance

Colombia: Purchase Options

Getting SOAT in Colombia is easier than you think—it’s like buying a concert ticket online, but way more important.

Authorized Insurance Companies:

Big names like SURA, Falabella, Estado, and other licensed insurers
Online platforms for quick, no-line purchases
Physical offices and authorized agents if you like talking to people
Banks and other financial institutions

Required Documentation:

Vehicle registration (Tarjeta de Propiedad)
Owner’s ID
Previous SOAT policy (if you’re renewing)
Technical-mechanical inspection certificate (if required)

Purchase Process:

Pick an authorized insurance provider
Give your vehicle and owner info
Pay the premium
Receive digital and physical policy documents
Always keep the SOAT certificate in your car—think of it as your golden ticket if an accident happens

Peru: Acquisition Methods

In Peru, grabbing SOAT is just as straightforward, like ordering your favorite snack from a mobile app.

Authorized Providers:

Insurance companies authorized by SBS (Superintendencia de Banca, Seguros y AFP)
Licensed agents and brokers
Online platforms and mobile apps
Bank branches and financial service points

Required Information:

Vehicle registration certificate
Owner’s DNI (Documento Nacional de Identidad)
Vehicle technical inspection certificate
Previous SOAT policy for renewals

Making a SOAT Claim: Step-by-Step Process

Immediate Actions After an Accident

Ensure Safety:

First things first: move to a safe spot if you can—don’t stay in the middle of traffic!
Turn on your hazard lights and put out warning triangles. Think of it like waving a giant “watch out!” flag.
Call emergency services (123 in Colombia, 116 in Peru)—help is on the way.

Document the Incident:

Snap photos of the scene, the cars, and any damage. Your phone is basically your superhero tool here.
Get contact info from everyone involved.
Grab witness statements if anyone saw what happened.
Note the weather and road conditions—it matters later for the claim.

Medical Attention:

Good news: you don’t need to fill out forms before getting treatment. Law says medical care comes first.
Head straight to the nearest hospital or clinic.
Show your SOAT certificate and ID.
The medical facility will handle the insurance claim directly—no money upfront for covered services!

Claim Processing and Reimbursement

For Medical Expenses:

Hospitals submit claims straight to the SOAT insurer.
Usually, you won’t pay upfront for what’s covered.
Extra costs? You might pay first and get reimbursed.
Keep all receipts and documentation—think of it like your evidence folder.

For Disability and Death Claims:

Contact your insurance company immediately.
Provide police reports, medical records, and all necessary forms.
Submit everything within the deadlines they give you.
Then, wait for the investigation and claim resolution—patience is key, but the process protects you and your family.

SOAT vs. Comprehensive Auto Insurance

A lot of people get confused about SOAT and regular car insurance, so let’s clear it up—it’s like comparing a life jacket to a full survival kit.

SOAT: Basic Protection

Mandatory by law—you must have it to drive legally
Covers only personal injuries, not your car
No-fault coverage—doesn’t matter who caused the accident
Compensation amounts are limited
Same coverage no matter which insurer you choose

Comprehensive Auto Insurance: Enhanced Protection

Optional but super useful—think of it like adding armor to your car
Covers vehicle damage and theft
Pays for third-party property damage
Higher compensation limits
Extra perks like roadside assistance or rental car coverage

Basically, SOAT is the law’s way of keeping people safe, but if your car gets smashed or stolen, it won’t help. It’s smart to think of SOAT as your safety net for people and comprehensive insurance as your shield for your car and belongings. Otherwise, you’ll be stuck paying for repairs yourself—ouch!

Read Also: Argentina: The Complete Guide to Driving and Insuring Your Car
Read Also: Mexico: Mandatory Liability Insurance and Beyond

Regional Differences and Cross-Border Considerations

Colombia-Peru Insurance Recognition

Here’s the deal: even though both Colombia and Peru have SOAT, your insurance from one country doesn’t automatically work in the other. Think of it like having a bus pass that only works in Bogotá—not Lima. If you’re traveling:

Buy local SOAT when you enter a new country
Check for international insurance agreements—sometimes there are special deals
Carry all the right documents for both countries
Learn the local claims process so you’re not lost if an accident happens

Coverage Variations

Even though SOAT has the same goal everywhere—protecting people—the systems aren’t identical:

Coverage limits and how they’re calculated can differ
Premium prices and vehicle categories aren’t always the same
Claim procedures and required documents vary
Legal penalties and enforcement rules change from country to country

Conclusion: The Essential Safety Net for Road Users

SOAT in Colombia and Peru is like a superhero shield for anyone on the road—it makes sure accident victims get immediate medical help no matter who’s at fault or how much money they have. Drivers, passengers, and pedestrians are all covered, and keeping your SOAT up to date isn’t just the law—it’s about looking out for each other.

While rates, coverage, and rules differ between the two countries, the goal is the same: nobody should be denied care because of money. Sure, the cost of a SOAT premium is small, but without it, a single accident could mean huge medical bills you’d have to pay yourself—yikes!