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Many people ignore or are unaware of certain traffic violations that, although not common, can result in serious complications for the driver. Expert Vinícius Hozara and Professor Carlão, from the Manual do Trânsito channel, commented on these violations, highlighting the penalties that can suspend the driver's license and even cause high costs with fines.
The Brazilian Traffic Code is extensive and complex, with many rules that change frequently. “It is the only legislation that is present in people’s daily lives, but not everyone is aware of its nuances, which results in unexpected traffic violations,” says Professor Carlão. He explains that, in addition to traditional fines for speeding or running a red light, there are mandatory fines that automatically suspend the driver’s license without the need to accumulate points.
A common example, but little known, is the infraction of exceeding 50% of the permitted speed limit. By committing this infraction, the driver is not only fined, but also has his/her license suspended, regardless of the number of points accumulated. Other mandatory infractions include dangerous maneuvers, driving in a way that threatens pedestrians and forcing overtaking in dangerous situations. These actions are severely penalized and can have immediate consequences for the right to drive.
Specific fines that surprise even professionals
Some traffic officers are not fully aware of all the less frequent traffic violations. “There are officers who enforce the basics, such as running red lights and using a cell phone while driving, but there are penalties that even they are unaware of,” says Carlão. Among these violations, the most notable are driving with objects between the legs, such as a cell phone or a weapon, and the improper use of hazard lights, which should only be used in emergencies.
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The use of cell phones, for example, is a controversial topic. Current legislation penalizes not only those who use the device manually, but also those who use it attached to their helmets, for motorcyclists, or on the dashboard, even if it is voice-controlled. According to Professor Carlão, the legislation considers the use of mobile devices to be a distraction, even if it seems similar to a conversation with a passenger.
Infraction for stopping in an inappropriate place and using the trunk
Another violation that goes unnoticed is stopping in an inappropriate place, such as maneuvering in the wrong direction when searching for an address or parking with the trunk open on public roads. The Traffic Code requires that the vehicle come to a complete stop at any stop sign, even if there are no other cars on the road. Many drivers do not respect this rule, incurring traffic violations that can result in high fines.
The hazard lights controversy and the use of Bluetooth
Improper use of hazard lights is another point addressed by experts. “Many people use their hazard lights at any stop, which is only permitted in emergency situations. Using hazard lights outside of these contexts is, in fact, a traffic violation,” says Vinícius Hozara.
Similarly, the use of audio devices such as Bluetooth, although controversial, is punishable. The law considers “any use of a cell phone while driving” to be an offense, even if the driver uses the Bluetooth function in the car.
Tips and attention to avoid unknown penalties
To avoid surprises, Vinícius Hozara and Professor Carlão recommend that drivers be aware of changes in traffic regulations, as many of these traffic violations, although not publicized, can result in unexpected fines. Lack of knowledge does not exempt drivers from penalties, and it is crucial that all drivers seek to better understand the violations that may affect their driver's license, avoiding hassles and high costs with fines.
Unknown traffic violations are still a frequent cause of serious penalties for many drivers. With increased enforcement and the use of technology in monitoring, infractions that go unnoticed by many can result in fines and even suspension of the driver's license, significantly impacting the lives of drivers.
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