The EPTV news captured irregularities that lead to accidents on the highways.

A new regulation from CONTRAN establishes a fine of R$ 127.69 and 5 points on the driver's license.

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From G1 São Carlos and Araraquara (brasilian cities)

Truck drivers were caught by EPTV news this Thursday (12) in violation of the Brazilian Traffic Code, which requires the use of tarps or screens to cover their cargo. A new resolution from the National Traffic Council (Contran) establishes fines for this violation, which can lead to accidents.

Several trucks were seen transporting open-bed loads of sugarcane on the Washington Luís Highway. On SP-255, which connects Araraquara to Ribeirão Preto, a truck carrying scrap metal was also uncovered. This situation raises concerns among other drivers. "This protection is very important for the vehicle behind because at any moment, the cargo can spill," said businessman Valentim Osmar Barbizan.

The Brazilian Traffic Code obliges truck drivers to cover their cargo with tarps or screens. This requirement applies to bulk products transported without packaging, such as construction materials, fruits, and vegetables. However, the rule was not always followed because the law did not specify the penalty for truck drivers who transported uncovered loads. Now, a new Contran resolution establishes a fine.

According to the regulation, which came into effect in June, the driver commits a serious offense, is fined R$ 127.69, and receives five points on their license. The Highway Patrol states that they have increased inspections, particularly regarding trucks transporting sugarcane. "Every day, there is a specific operation focused on this type of inspection, and at least one truck is fined each day due to the lack of this equipment," said Highway Patrol officer Daniele Priscila Nonis.

An inspection by the Highway Patrol in Araraquara found a truck without a tarp. The truck was carrying 60 tons of sugarcane to a mill. "We are aware that we need the tarp, but it was said that the deadline for compliance was extended, and the enforcement would only start next year," explained driver Fernando Sanchez. The Highway Patrol denied the extension of the deadline.

Due to these violations, highway concessionaires have to work hard to remove materials left on the road. On the highway connecting São Carlos to Ribeirão Preto, cleaning efforts are intensified, especially during the sugarcane harvest season. "The concessionaire manages 316 kilometers of highway and provides eight trucks, generating two tons of materials per day, such as sugarcane, tires, and paper. In cases where there is a lot of material hindering traffic, we request highway patrol assistance to provide signaling until the removal is complete," said traffic coordinator Everton Campi.

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Source: G1 São Carlos and Araraquara