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Drivers, beware: the new Headlight Law is now in effect in Brazil; see the rules

Written by Alisson Ficher
Published 30/12/2024 às 18:27
Find out everything about the Headlight Law, which requires low beam headlights to be on during the day on Brazilian highways. Greater safety on the road!
Find out everything about the Headlight Law, which requires low beam headlights to be on during the day on Brazilian highways. Greater safety on the road!

The new Headlight Law requires drivers to keep their low beam headlights on during the day on single-lane highways. The measure aims to increase vehicle visibility and prevent accidents. Learn about the rules, exceptions and penalties, as well as the importance of taking care of your headlights to ensure safety on the roads.

In an attempt to reduce the number of accidents on highways, Brazil has adopted legislation that promises to change driver behavior.

Did you know that a simple action, like keeping your headlights on during the day, can save lives?

The Headlight Law, as it became known, was created to strengthen traffic safety and provide greater protection for drivers and pedestrians.

But what exactly does this rule determine? Who must follow it? And what are the penalties for those who fail to comply with the rule? Keep reading and find out everything about the new requirement that is already in effect nationwide.

What is the Lighthouse Law?

Sanctioned and officially called Law 14.071 / 2020, the measure requires drivers to maintain their low beam headlights on during the day on single-lane highways outside urban areas.

The main objective of this determination is to increase vehicle visibility, reducing the risk of collisions in situations with less light.

According to experts, using headlights during the day significantly increases the visibility of vehicles, especially on roads where infrastructure or weather conditions can make visibility difficult.

Where does the law apply?

The Lighthouse Law has clear rules on where and how it should be applied:

  • Single-lane highways: the use of low beam headlights during the day is mandatory, regardless of weather conditions.
  • Dual-lane highways: Daytime use of dipped headlights is optional. However, nighttime use remains mandatory on all roads.

This distinction seeks to address the different characteristics of the roads and their safety conditions.

Exceptions provided for

Not all vehicles are subject to the requirement to turn on their dipped headlights during the day.

Vehicles equipped with daytime running lights (DRL) are exempt from this requirement on single-lane highways, but are still required to use headlights at night.

Benefits of legislation

The main reasons for implementing the Lighthouse Law are clear and direct. Among them, the following stand out:

  • Greater visibility: the brightness emitted by low beam headlights makes it easier to identify vehicles from a distance, reducing the risk of head-on or side collisions.
  • Accidents prevention: using headlights on acts as an extra barrier against human error, one of the most common factors in accidents.

Furthermore, the legislation has a significant impact on driver awareness, promoting a culture of safety.

Penalties for non-compliance

Drivers who do not follow the rules of the Headlight Law are subject to punishment.

The infraction is considered average, resulting in a fine and points on your driver's license.

Therefore, compliance with the rule becomes essential to avoid financial losses and legal complications.

Headlight care

To ensure safety and avoid penalties, headlight maintenance is essential. Experts recommend:

  • Regular inspections: check the alignment and brightness of the headlights to ensure they are working perfectly.
  • Lamp replacement: Replace burned out or low-intensity bulbs to avoid fines and increase visibility.

Keeping your headlights in good condition protects both the driver and other road users.

Why is the law relevant?

Since its implementation, the Headlight Law has brought noticeable changes to Brazilian traffic.

In addition to reducing the number of collisions, the legislation reinforces the importance of proactive attitudes on the part of drivers.

According to road safety data, increased visibility on highways can be crucial to saving lives.

With the new law in force, safety on Brazilian roads gains an important ally. It is up to each driver to do their part, contributing to safer and more conscious traffic.

Do you think the Headlight Law will be enough to reduce accidents on highways or are there still other urgent measures to be taken? Comment your opinion below!

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Antonio Moraes
Antonio Moraes
30/12/2024 20:16

Very good/the accident rate will definitely decrease

Reginaldo
Reginaldo
In reply to  Antonio Moraes
30/12/2024 23:08

Go to hell! The government just needs to privatize highways or stop killing drivers the way it is stalling and stealing from the works.

Celso
Celso
31/12/2024 01:54

If a driver can't see a car from 3 meters away during the day, he doesn't need the vehicle's lights on, he needs to go to an eye doctor or a psychiatrist and we don't need to be fined to collect funds to be stolen from the public coffers, it's just another government thing, lol Brazil, what can you do!

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Alisson Ficher

Journalist graduated in 2017 and working in the field since 2015, with six years of experience in print magazines, stints on broadcast TV channels and over 12 online publications. Specialist in politics, jobs, economics, courses, among other topics. Professional registration: 0087134/SP. If you have any questions, want to report an error or suggest a topic on the topics covered on the site, please contact us by email: alisson.hficher@outlook.com. We do not accept resumes!

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