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Hundreds Of Drivers Are Penalized For This Type Of Fine When Crossing Tunnels, A Violation That Many Are Unaware Of.
Driving through tunnels may seem like a routine task, but for many drivers passing through Santos, on the coast of São Paulo, this experience has become a major headache.
A rule in the Brazilian Traffic Code (CTB), often ignored, has led to the issuance of hundreds of fines in the city, surprising drivers.
Between August 2024 and January 2025, 607 violations were recorded only in the Prefeito Rubens Ferreira Martins Tunnel, which connects the city center to the Jabaquara neighborhood.
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The reason? The lack of using low beams inside the tunnel during the day, a requirement established in Brazilian traffic legislation.
Forgotten Rule, Guaranteed Fines
According to the Santos City Hall, the violations are not being recorded by radars, but rather by agents from the Traffic Engineering Company (CET) and the Military Police, who conduct constant inspections in the area.
The legislation is clear: Article 250 of the Brazilian Traffic Code (CTB) states that the use of low beams is mandatory in tunnels, even during the day, as well as in conditions of rain, fog, or mist.
Those who disregard the rule commit a medium violation, with a penalty of four points on their driving license and a fine of R$ 130.16.
Many drivers claim they don’t remember the requirement or that the tunnel lighting is sufficient to maintain visibility.
However, experts emphasize that the low beam is not just for better visibility, but to increase the visibility of the vehicle for other drivers, reducing the risk of accidents.
Possibility of Contestation
Despite the clarity of the legislation, some drivers question the validity of the fines and look for ways to contest them.
Lawyers specializing in traffic law argue that, in some cases, the fine can be canceled if it is proven that the signage in the area was insufficient to alert drivers about the requirement to use the low beam.
Another possibility raised is the argument that the tunnel lighting could be considered adequate for vehicle visibility, which would allow for a different interpretation of the rule.
However, appealing a fine does not always guarantee cancellation, and drivers need to present concrete evidence to support their defense.
More Expensive Penalties for Those With Luxury Cars?
While drivers are penalized for not turning on their headlights in tunnels, a proposal currently in the National Congress could change how traffic fines are applied in Brazil.
A bill proposes that the fines should be calculated based on the market price of the vehicle, instead of a fixed amount, as is currently the case.
Sponsored by Deputy Kiko Celeguim (PT), the proposal argues that the fixed fine structure disproportionately penalizes drivers, as a driver with greater purchasing power feels less financial impact than someone with lower income.
If approved, the same mistake could cost much more for someone driving a high-value vehicle, making the penalty system more proportional.
The project is still under review and generates controversy. While some support the idea as a more equitable form of punishment, others believe it could lead to distortions in the enforcement system.
If approved, the change will directly impact drivers of all categories and could redefine the concept of justice in Brazilian traffic.
Stay Alert to Avoid Fines
To avoid losses and headaches, it is essential that drivers stay attentive to traffic rules and turn on their low beams when crossing any tunnel, regardless of the internal lighting or the time of day.
Experts recommend that drivers make it a habit to keep their headlights on whenever there is doubt about the requirement, as this measure not only prevents fines but also contributes to the safety of everyone on the road.
In Santos, enforcement will remain active, and the trend is that fines will continue to be issued while drivers do not comply with the requirement.
Therefore, staying alert to the rules and signage can make all the difference in avoiding unnecessary expenses.
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