Article 208 of the Brazilian Traffic Code (CTB) considers running a red light to be a very serious infraction that results in a traffic ticket of R$ 293.74, in addition to the withdrawal of 7 points on the CNH. This is something almost every driver has done. So, is it possible to leave at a red light without consequences?
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Yes, believe it or not, but there is a way to pass it without being penalized for it. Know what to do:
The New Traffic Law, enacted in April last year, article 44-A of the CTB exempts drivers from violating to pass the closed traffic light in situations where there is a sign allowing the free conversion to the right. For this, signaling can be done by a traffic agent or by means of signs. In addition, overtaking must not interfere with vehicles that are on the road that the driver wants to enter.
1. What does the article say?
''Art. 44-A. The turning movement to the right in front of a red traffic light is free where there is an indicative signal that allows this conversion, observing the arts. 44, 45 and 70 of this Code.''
2. What is the purpose of this permission?
The purpose of allowing red lights to be passed in specific situations is to improve the flow of traffic, especially at busy times. where there is a large movement of cars and pedestrians, thus avoiding the creation of large queues for drivers who wish to turn right.
3. Are there risks for pedestrians and cyclists?
This flexibility has worried some pedestrians and cyclists. The reason is that there are disagreements and debates between traffic specialists and authorities. However, overtaking can only occur with express authorization and observing pedestrians, cyclists and cars in the surroundings.
Ensuring the guidelines of the traffic law, the measure will only allow something that already happens, but that often happens without any supervision or signs to reduce damage.
4. And during the night? Is overtaking free and allowed?
It depends. Article 208 of the CTB allows passing red lights at certain times due to security issues, that is, preventing and escaping from robberies. But serious accidents can also occur if the driver drives at high speed knowing that there are no traffic lights to stop him.
Thus, although the article still divides opinions, it is possible that there is overtaking at night, yes. However, the times when running the red light is released varies according to the municipalities, since each organ municipal transit executive has the autonomy to decide from what moment this procedure is allowed.
