Recklessness and physical and mental health issues cause 74% of deaths on highways

Recklessness and impairment of the physical and mental health of drivers are the main factors behind accidents with fatalities on Brazilian roads. According to the Federal Highway Police (PRF) Yearbook, of the total of 6,043 deaths recorded on federal highways in 2025, 4,458 (74%) originated from human error and driver health problems.

The index reveals an alarming scenario: at least 12 people die every day in the country due to factors such as lack of reaction, sleep, use of psychoactive substances and speeding.

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The impact of mental health on road safety

Experts point out that inattention, fatigue, anxiety and impulsivity are today among the biggest villains of road safety. The traffic reflex is an extension of the population’s mental health.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Brazil leads the world ranking of anxiety, with 18.6% of the population living with the disorder. At the same time, a recent survey by the University of São Paulo (USP) indicated a record number of sick leaves due to mental disorders, with depression and anxiety registering a 15% increase.

Fatigue at the wheel: far beyond physical fatigue

Fatigue directly compromises the ability to react, reduces concentration and affects the driver’s judgment. During vacation periods, the danger intensifies, as many people decide to travel just when they are on the edge of emotional exhaustion.

How to mitigate risks and ensure a safe trip

Accident prevention starts with driver behavior. There are some practical, simple and effective measures to reduce risks on highways:

• Prioritize sleep: Sleepless nights reduce the driver’s reflexes by up to 30%. Also avoid driving at times when the body asks for natural rest (between 2 pm and 4 pm, and after 10 pm).
• Stay hydrated: Dehydration causes mental fatigue and impairs focus. Drink water every 30 or 40 minutes of travel.
• Eat light meals: heavy foods generate drowsiness and divert the necessary attention to the track.
• Take regular breaks: stop the car every two hours. Walking and stretching for a few minutes helps restore circulation and resets mental attention.
• Do not drive under strong emotion: bouts of anxiety, depression, anger or haste significantly increase driving errors. If the trip is indispensable, opt for times of lower traffic, reduce speed and make more stops.

Before hitting the road, the driver also needs to undergo internal “maintenance”. Emotional balance, adequate rest, and mindfulness are efficient tools to save lives in traffic.