Almost a year after coming into effect, Curitiba's law imposing a R$ 600 fine for 'drafting' on buses is not regulated
A municipal law in Curitiba imposing a R$ 600 fine for cyclists illegally drafting on buses is yet to be regulated, hindering enforcement.
In Curitiba, a municipal law that came into effect in May 2025 stipulates a R$ 600 fine for individuals caught 'drafting' behind buses, a practice where cyclists hold onto the back of vehicles to gain speed. Despite its introduction almost a year ago, the law remains unregulated as the city hall has not issued the necessary decrees outlining how enforcement and penalties would be implemented. This lack of regulatory framework prevents the law from being effectively enforced, leaving many cyclists unaware of the legal implications.
Recently, an incident occurred involving a teenager who was caught engaging in this behavior while using a bus-only lane near the Capão da Imbuia Terminal. The local Municipal Guard apprehended the boy, who admitted to having committed the same infraction previously. Following the encounter, he was taken to the Adolescent Police Station for appropriate legal actions. This incident highlights the pressing issue of cyclist safety and the need for regulatory measures to ensure that laws are properly enforced.
The 'drafting' practice, although illegal, is not classified as a crime under the Brazilian Traffic Code, which raises questions about the scope and effectiveness of the law. The ongoing lack of regulation may discourage enforcement efforts and calls for dialogue between local authorities and community members to raise awareness and encourage safe practices among cyclists. Furthermore, ensuring that the law is implementable could help reduce accidents and promote safer transportation options in Curitiba.