The Federal Highway Police (PRF) in Brazil has released data indicating a concerning increase in traffic accidents and fatalities on federal highways during the Carnival celebration from February 13 to 18, 2026. This year's statistics show a rise of approximately 52% in reported deaths, with numbers jumping from 85 in 2025 to 130 in 2026. Additionally, the number of accidents rose by 4.3%, as well as a notable 8.5% increase in serious accidents, highlighting the dangerous conditions prevalent during this festive period.

The PRF's report provides specific figures concerning the nature of accidents, highlighting that in 2026, there were 1,241 total accidents compared to 1,190 the previous year, and serious accidents increased from 316 to 343. The PRF conducted extensive monitoring during this period, inspecting 184,316 individuals and conducting over 118,000 breathalyzer tests to combat drunk driving and ensure road safety. Their efforts underscore the significant risks associated with increased travel and festivities during Carnival, which traditionally sees large gatherings and celebrations across the country.

In an effort to ensure the safety of all road users, the PRF also documented various traffic violations during the holiday. The most notable offenses included approximately 2,400 cases of drunk driving, 55,582 instances of speeding, and 9,263 improper overtaking violations. These figures reflect challenges law enforcement faces in maintaining road safety during high traffic events like Carnival, necessitating further measures and awareness campaigns to reduce accidents and fatalities in future celebrations.