Detran alert: illegal overtaking increases the risk of fatal accidents

Haste and recklessness continue to be enemies of traffic safety. Among the most dangerous behaviors, illegal overtaking stands out as one of the main causes of serious and fatal accidents on the roads. Therefore, the Department of Traffic of the State of Pará (Detran-PA) reinforces the alert to the population: respecting overtaking rules is essential to preserve lives.

According to data from Detran Pará, 7,971 violations for overtaking in a continuous lane (against traffic) were recorded in 2024, an increase from 6,138 fines in 2023. The continuous yellow line, as provided in the Brazilian Traffic Code (CTB), indicates places where the maneuver is prohibited due to the high risk of collision.

Disrespect for legislation has also increased in other risky situations. Overtaking on bridges, where visibility and space are limited, rose from 120 (2023) to 260 violations (2024). Overtaking on the shoulder, prohibited by law and reserved for emergencies, increased from 233 to 243 fines in the same period.

These recklessness behaviors elevate the risk of collisions. In 2023, Detran recorded 21,333 accidents involving vehicle collisions, a number that rose to 21,950 in 2024. Violations for irregular maneuvers jumped from 2,316 to 3,012 fines, a growth of 29.6%. These combined risky behaviors create a more unsafe road environment.

The CTB, in its articles 202 and 203, details the prohibitions and penalties for these maneuvers. The fine for prohibited overtaking can reach R$ 2,934.70, with an addition of 7 points on the driver's license and the possibility of suspension of the right to drive. Overtaking on the shoulder or in places with specific prohibitions is also a serious violation, with a fine of R$ 1,467.35.

The agency has invested in educational campaigns and intensified inspections, but emphasizes that the driver's behavior is decisive for preserving life on the highways. “Illegal or poorly planned overtaking doubles the chances of an accident with victims. The recommendation is that the driver does not overtake in prohibited places and that even when maneuvering in the allowed lane, especially on two-way roads, they should observe whether the time and space for overtaking are sufficient to avoid putting anyone's life at risk,” warns the technical operational director of Detran, Bento Gouveia.

Text by Maria Helena Genniges / Ascom Detran