During the recent Carnival 2026 operations, the Brazilian Federal Highway Police (PRF) documented eight deaths on federal highways in Bahia, which is double the four fatalities recorded during the same period last year. This operation, which commenced on February 13 and concluded on February 18, was part of a broader initiative known as Operation Rodovida aimed at reducing traffic violence during the festive season.

In terms of accidents, a total of 64 incidents were reported on Bahia's federal highways, of which 25 were classified as serious. In total, 91 individuals sustained injuries during these accidents, a significant rise from the previous year's Carnival when 40 accidents were reported, resulting in 13 serious incidents and 44 injuries. The areas with the highest fatalities were on the BR-101 highway, specifically between Belmonte and São José da Vitória, and the BR-116 highway in the localities of Feira de Santana and Teofilândia. According to the PRF, the predominant cause of these accidents was attributed to incompatible driving speeds.

The PRF emphasized the ongoing efforts to enhance road safety during the Carnival festivities, noting the importance of careful driving practices. The significant increase in fatalities compared to the previous year highlights the need for continuous public awareness campaigns and stricter enforcement of traffic regulations to mitigate risks during such high-traffic events. The data from this year's operation raises concerns and calls for action from both authorities and the public to promote safer roads during future festivals.