traffic law

[ˈtræfɪk lɔː]
nounpl: traffic laws
lei de trânsito
1. A regulation or set of regulations governing the operation of vehicles on public roads and highways
According to traffic law, you must stop at a red light.
De acordo com a lei de trânsito, você deve parar no sinal vermelho.
2. Legal statutes that establish rules for road safety, vehicle operation, and penalties for violations
The new traffic law increased fines for speeding.
A nova lei de trânsito aumentou as multas por excesso de velocidade.
3. The body of law enforcement pertaining to motor vehicle operation and pedestrian safety
Violating traffic law can result in license suspension.
Violar a lei de trânsito pode resultar na suspensão da carteira de motorista.
In Brazil, traffic law is primarily governed by the Código de Trânsito Brasileiro (Brazilian Traffic Code), established in 1997. Traffic enforcement is handled by state-level DETRAN (Departamento de Trânsito) agencies. Violations carry fines and points on driving records. In the USA, traffic laws vary by state and municipality but generally follow similar principles of road safety and vehicle operation.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
road lawmotor vehicle lawdriving lawtraffic regulationtraffic code

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
lei de trânsito
Standard term used throughout Brazil; regulated by the Código de Trânsito Brasileiro
Rio de Janeiro
lei de trânsito
Same as general Brazilian; enforced by DETRAN-RJ
São Paulo
lei de trânsito
Same as general Brazilian; enforced by DETRAN-SP
Portugal
código da estrada
Portuguese term differs; refers to 'road code' rather than traffic law

Related Words

speedingtraffic violationtraffic tickettraffic enforcementroad safetyvehicle registrationdriver's license

Related Idioms & Phrases

break traffic law
enforce traffic law
comply with traffic law
violate traffic law
traffic law enforcement
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