Current panorama of road cargo transport in Brazil

Roads represent the primary means of transporting cargo and people in Brazil. However, even considering the importance of roads for the country's economy, only 12.4% of roads in Brazil are paved, and accident rates are high. The main objective of this work is to assess the current panorama of road cargo transport on Brazilian federal roads. The road conditions and the accidents involving trucks were evaluated. Besides, truck driver profiles were traced, and finally, the economic and social aspects were evaluated. The inadequate road network conditions contribute to circulation restrictions, damage of products transported by trucks, and increase the risk of accidents. Improving the quality of Brazilian roads will minimise the socio-environmental impacts of cargo transportation deficiencies. Actions such as investments in new roads and maintenance of the existing ones are needed, but better drivers and new technologies are also required.