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Contran introduces changes to free flow tolls: extended deadline, proportional charges and possibility of appeal. New rules promise practicality and fairness in traffic. Drivers and concessionaires will have to adapt quickly. How will these changes impact daily life on Brazilian highways?
Have you ever imagined a toll system that promises to revolutionize traffic and also avoid headaches for drivers? Well, a recent decision by the National Traffic Council (Contran) can transform the way we pay for our travel.
The new electronic toll model, known as free flow, came to replace the previous rules and is bringing new features that can directly impact the pockets and routine of those who use Brazilian highways. But are these changes really beneficial?
In October 2024, Contran approved a series of changes to the free flow toll rules.
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This model, which does away with traditional toll booths and allows vehicles to pass through without stopping, seeks to optimize traffic and facilitate payment.
Highlights include increasing the payment term from 15 to 30 days, as well as introducing mechanisms that increase transparency and offer greater convenience to drivers.
What changes with the new model approved by Contran?
From now on, drivers will have an easier time paying off amounts owed.
If before the deadline was limited to 15 days, it will now be 30 days, with the possibility of extension to the next business day if the final date falls on a holiday or weekend.
This change seeks to avoid undue automatic charges or payment difficulties.
Another great new feature is the possibility of contestation.
If the driver identifies charges that he/she considers to be incorrect or undue, he/she can appeal directly to the system.
This initiative aims to offer more security and confidence to the user.
Additionally, we bring all billing data will now be centralized in the Digital Transit Wallet (CDT).
This functionality already brings together documents such as the digital driver's license and outstanding fines, ensuring a single point of access to information.
A proportional and transparent charge
One of the biggest complaints about the toll system has always been the single charge, regardless of the mileage traveled.
With the new rules, the amount paid will be proportional to the route taken by the driver.
This model presents itself as a fairer alternative, especially benefiting those who use shorter stretches of highways.
To ensure the effectiveness of this system, the responsible bodies and concessionaires will start to carry out educational campaigns, explaining how electronic tolls work.
These actions aim to avoid confusion and inform drivers about their obligations.
Strict monitoring and control
Another important point of the new system is the storage of captured images. Vehicle photos will be kept for up to 90 days.
However, if payment is not made, the term increases significantly, reaching 5 years.
For vehicles registered abroad, the rules are even stricter. Foreign drivers will only be able to leave Brazil after paying all outstanding toll amounts.
This standard seeks to avoid financial losses for concessionaires and ensure that international users also follow the regulations.
Benefits for motorcyclists
Although it is best known for its application in passenger cars, electronic tolls also offer differentiated support for motorcycles.
While specific details have not been widely released, the changes are expected to be equally advantageous to motorcyclists.
A change that could transform Brazilian traffic
According to recent information, this new regulation promises to bring more practicality and justice to road traffic.
According to experts, the changes not only optimize the drivers experience, but also align Brazil with international electronic billing practices.
However, It remains to be seen how users and concessionaires will adapt to the new system. Will these changes really simplify drivers' lives or will they end up generating more doubts and complications?
Positively, this implementation will be great for all drivers, as for the savings for dealerships, will there be a reduced rate?
Negatively, it will be a system that will report where you have been, what will happen to your privacy?
Where and how do I pay the toll when I use it?