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Thousands of drivers are being fined at the new 'free flow' tolls due to system failures, but a simple chip on your vehicle's license plate could be the solution to avoid these fines and make your journeys more peaceful.
Brazilian highways are going through a technological transformation that promises to make drivers' lives easier.
However, this modernization has created unexpected challenges for those who travel daily.
Recently, the implementation of 'free flow' tolls has brought convenience, but has also resulted in a significant increase in fines for unsuspecting drivers.
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But what if there was a simple way to avoid these penalties and make your travels more hassle-free?
What are 'free flow' tolls?
'Free flow' tolls are electronic toll collection systems that allow vehicles to pass through without the need to stop at traditional toll plazas.
Using automatic identification technologies, such as cameras and sensors, the system records the passage of vehicles and charges for them later.
Although this innovation brings more fluidity to traffic, many drivers have faced difficulties due to the lack of clear information and adequate signage, resulting in unexpected fines.
The solution: radio frequency identification (RFID) chips
A promising alternative to avoid these fines is the use of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) chips on vehicle license plates.
These chips allow the vehicle to be identified remotely by antennas installed on the roads, ensuring accurate charging and reducing the chance of undue penalties.
However, the implementation of this technology in Brazil has been marked by ups and downs.
History of RFID implementation in vehicle plates
In 2020, Brazil adopted the 'Mercosur' license plate model, which initially included RFID chips to facilitate vehicle identification.
However, in 2019, the National Transit Secretariat (Senatran), previously known as the National Transit Department (Denatran), decided to remove the requirement for these chips from Vehicle Identification Plates (PIV).
The justification was the concern for security in remotely identifying vehicles without the need for inspection teams to approach them.
Consequences of the absence of the chip on the boards
Since the implementation of the 'free flow' system by Concessionária Tamoios, between November 18 and January 19, more than 10 thousand drivers have not paid the tolls, resulting in fines and additional charges.
The lack of an efficient identification system, such as RFID, contributes to these alarming numbers, harming both drivers and highway management.
Advantages of adopting RFID chip
The implementation of the RFID chip in vehicle plates offers several advantages:
- Accurate identification: It allows automatic reading of vehicle data by antennas installed on the roads, reducing errors in charging.
- Greater fluidity in traffic: Eliminates the need for stops at toll plazas, making journeys faster and more efficient.
- Reduction of undue fines: With automatic identification, the chance of incorrect charges and unfair penalties for drivers is reduced.
Challenges and considerations for implementation
Despite the advantages, the adoption of RFID chips faces challenges, such as concerns about the privacy of driver data and the costs associated with implementing the technology.
It is essential that authorities and concessionaires work together to ensure that the technology is implemented in a safe, efficient and transparent manner, ensuring drivers’ rights.
For experts, the modernization of Brazilian highways with systems such as the 'free flow' toll is a significant advance for mobility in the country.
However, for this innovation to fully benefit drivers, it is crucial to consider solutions that ensure fair and efficient charging.
The adoption of RFID chips in vehicle license plates appears to be a viable alternative to avoid undue fines and provide more peaceful journeys for drivers.
It is now up to the competent authorities to assess the feasibility and benefits of this implementation, always aiming at the well-being and safety of all highway users.
