Safe travel: see guidelines before hitting the road during long holidays
The National Confederation of Transport in Brazil has released a guide for drivers to promote safe travel during the upcoming series of extended holidays leading up to Carnival 2026.
The National Confederation of Transport (CNT) in Brazil has published the "Safe Travel Guide 2026" to assist motorists preparing for the long holiday weekends associated with Carnival 2026. With significant holiday traffic expected, the guide emphasizes the importance of travel planning, vehicle maintenance, and defensive driving practices. The publication also reflects concerns over road safety as it notes that over 60% of the country's road network has issues such as damaged pavements and poor signage, increasing the danger for drivers on the roads.
Moreover, the CNT highlights alarming statistics regarding road safety, citing a concerning trend from 2025, where federal highways experienced 72,476 accidents, resulting in 6,040 fatalities. This underscores the crucial need for awareness and caution during travel periods, especially as more drivers are expected to take to the roads during the forthcoming holidays. The guide encourages drivers to prioritize safety by selecting safer routes and actively participating in vehicle maintenance prior to embarking on their journeys.
As Brazil prepares for these extended holiday periods, the CNT's guide aims to equip drivers with vital information to minimize risks and promote safer travel experiences during one of the busiest times on Brazilian roads. With the prevalence of road issues noted in the report, awareness and preparation are key to reducing the potential for accidents during this festive season.