Wow, I just found out that running a red light is a really serious offense. It’s not just a regular fine — it’s a major violation, you know? It costs R$ 293.47 straight to your account and also comes with a 7-point penalty on your CNH. Like, how many points do you get for running a red light? Exactly those 7 I mentioned. It makes a big difference compared to other infractions, because a minor one is only 3 points, medium is 4, serious is 5. But running a red light? Straight to 7 points.

The Brazilian Traffic Code doesn’t play around with this, especially because running a red light causes cross collisions and pedestrian accidents at busy intersections. That’s why the punishment is so strict. And check this out — those speed cameras, the so-called “pardais,” are set up specifically to catch cars passing after the light turns red. There’s even a delay time between the yellow turning red, but once that happens, anything that passes is recorded.

There are some exceptions, like when there’s signage allowing a right turn, or when an ambulance passes with siren on. But other than that, it’s a mandatory stop. The best thing to do is stay alert when the yellow light comes on and slow down. If you want to avoid the headache of getting a notification from the Detran later, it’s better to take it easy at intersections. And if you’ve already received a fine, you can check it on the Secretaria Nacional de Trânsito’s portal and settle it quickly — there’s even a discount if you pay in advance.