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A Seemingly Harmless Gesture Can Weigh on the Pocket: Putting Your Arm Outside the Vehicle Window Is Considered a Medium Offense According to Brazilian Traffic Law. The Attitude Can Generate Fines and Points on the License, Besides Representing a Safety Risk
Putting your arm out of the car may seem like a simple, automatic gesture. But this practice is far from harmless. According to the Brazilian Traffic Code (CTB), the act is considered a medium offense and can lead to consequences for the driver.
According to Article 252 of the CTB, driving with your arm out of the car constitutes an offense subject to a fine. The amount is R$ 130.16. Additionally, the driver receives four points on their National Driver’s License (CNH). Even if the offense is not among the most common, it is subject to enforcement by traffic agents.
The rule applies to both the driver and passengers. Even if it is the passenger who puts their arm outside, it is the driver who can be penalized for the offense.
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Article 252 does not only address having an arm out of the car. It also considers a medium offense to drive with people, animals, or objects placed on the driver’s left side, or between their arms and legs.
This can hinder movements and put driving at risk. Even if it seems practical, transporting something this way can lead to a fine.
Another point addressed is the driver’s physical condition. If there is any physical or mental limitation that affects their driving ability, this also constitutes a medium offense. This includes, for example, situations where a person is medicated or injured in a way that impairs their reflexes.
The law also specifies the type of footwear allowed. It is not permitted to drive with shoes that do not secure the feet or that compromise the use of the pedals. This includes flip-flops and loose shoes. The rationale is safety when braking or accelerating.
The code also warns against driving with only one hand on the wheel. The exception is when the driver needs to signal with their arm, change gears, or operate some equipment in the vehicle. Otherwise, this practice may result in an offense. The offense will be considered serious if the driver has a cell phone in the other hand.
With information from Vrum.
