Guide to Driving In Smart Brazil - Drive Safe in Smart Brazil

Driving is on the right with overtaking on the left. At roundabouts you give way to cars entering the roundabout ahead of you. It is illegal to turn right on red lights unless indicated. Brazil is not the safest place in the world to drive with unpredictable drivers, roads and relatively high rates of accidents and theft. Fire extinguishers and first aid kits should be carried in cars in Brazil.

You should always keep your doors locked at night to prevent car jackings and watch out that cars do not box you in at red lights. Although most of the main state roads are in good condition, elsewhere in the country pot holes and animals are a major cause of road accidents and so driving at night should be avoided where possible. Driving during or after the rainy season can also be hazardous. Watch out for unmarked speed bumps in places. It is prohibited to drive while talking on a mobile phone without a hands free kit. Driving in flip flops is illegal and you should not have your elbows resting on the window sill.



In Brazil drivers warn cars behind them not to pass with a flashing left signal. This could be for a number of reasons but generally indicates that it is not safe to overtake. Cars that come towards you flashing their headlights are warning you of impending obstacles such as animals or the presence of the police. Trucks should always be viewed with caution as there is no law which requires truck drivers to stop regularly and rest. Brazilian drivers may well stop suddenly if they see a speed camera.

Do not move your car, unless it is in a dangerous position which might lead to another accident, call the police on 193 and wait for them to arrive. In the meantime swap insurance information and addresses with the other driver. Don't argue with the police and be polite and patient. If you have a camera handy take pictures of the accident for police and insurance purposes. You should give a copy of the police report to your insurance company. Do not give a lift to anyone who is hurt – this can make you liable for the accident.

Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers. In some Brazilian states you are required to have child seats for young passengers. They should be fitted when children are too small to wear a seat belt.

Motorway signs have a green background. Some of the signs in the municipalities can be confusing.

The prices for petrol in Brazil vary widely from day to day, and from state to state. In Sao Paolo it is approximately 66 Rs. It is advisable to fill up at gas stations as often as you can as they are few and far between in some parts of Brazil.

Following new laws the drinking limit is zero tolerance at 0.2grams of alcohol per litre.

You need to have your licence and an international driving permit can be helpful. Other documents which it is a good idea to have are your passport, some proof of insurance (including third party fire and liability insurance) and your vehicle ownership papers. Only show these to authorized officials if requested.

You need an international driving licence along with your home licence. If you are American you can get an Inter-American driving permit.

Most of the inter city roads are toll roads, just queue and pay at the booth. Toll roads are worth taking because they tend to be in better condition.

60 kilometres per hour on urban roads.
120 kilometres per hour on divided roads and highways.
Radar detectors are used to enforce speed laws. Road fines can be paid at the Banco Do Brazil.

The conversion from kilometres to miles per hour is one kilometre = 0.62 miles per hour. Therefore 60 kilometres is 37 miles per hour.

To drive in Brazil you need to be 18 years old, though most companies don't let you rent a car unless you are at least 21 years old.

The emergency services number is 193. To contact the American Embassy in Brazil visit http://brasilia.usembassy.gov/index.php?action=materia&id=4862&submenu=2&itemmenu=10.

Parking on the street is not advised due to high vehicle theft and break in rates. Guard against auto theft by trying to park in the safest place possible. Never leave any valuables in your automobile. There are some child and adult minders who will guard your car for you in return for a tip. Otherwise you should look for private parking in a secure place. If you have to park on the street, you should not park on a side where you would be facing traffic. Do not obstruct the routes to hospitals or fire stations.