The operation, running from Friday, 30 October, until Sunday, 1 November, will involve additional patrols and traffic checks throughout mainland Portugal, with officers concentrating on routes expected to experience heavier traffic.

The GNR anticipates an increase in road journeys as people travel to visit family, attend commemorations and spend time away from home during the All Saints’ Day period.

The aim is to reduce accidents, maintain the flow of traffic and provide assistance to motorists where necessary.

Officers from the GNR’s territorial commands and National Traffic Unit will carry out coordinated patrols and road inspections over the three days.

Particular attention will be given to dangerous driving behaviours, including excessive speed, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and using a mobile phone behind the wheel.

The GNR is also reminding motorists of the importance of wearing seat belts and ensuring that children travel in appropriate restraint systems.

Drivers are being urged to follow traffic rules carefully, particularly when overtaking, changing direction, making U-turns or approaching junctions where they must give way.

Maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle in front is another priority, especially on busy roads where sudden braking can increase the risk of collisions.

The increased police presence will also support general policing and crime prevention activities.

Why All Saints’ Day brings more traffic

All Saints’ Day, known in Portugal as Dia de Todos os Santos, is observed on 1 November and is a national public holiday.

The occasion is traditionally associated with visits to cemeteries, where families remember deceased relatives and place flowers on graves.

These journeys can lead to additional traffic around towns, villages and cemetery access roads, as well as on major routes connecting different regions.

This year, 1 November falls on a Sunday, meaning the public holiday does not create an additional weekday off for most workers.

Nevertheless, the GNR expects road traffic to increase during the weekend, prompting the nationwide operation.

For those travelling longer distances, the authorities recommend allowing enough time for journeys rather than attempting to make up delays by driving faster.

The GNR is encouraging drivers to adopt a cautious approach, particularly when traffic is heavy or road conditions change.

Speed should be adjusted not only to the posted limit but also to visibility, weather, traffic and the condition of the road.

Motorists are also advised to avoid alcohol and other substances that may impair their ability to drive.

Mobile phone use remains a significant concern because even a brief distraction can prevent a driver from responding to a sudden hazard.

Families travelling with children should check that car seats and other restraint systems are correctly fitted before setting off.

Drivers planning journeys through unfamiliar areas may also wish to allow additional time for local congestion, particularly around cemeteries and town centres.

The operation will take place throughout mainland Portugal, including the Algarve, Alentejo, Lisbon and northern regions.

Rather than focusing on one particular motorway or district, the GNR says patrols will be concentrated where traffic volumes are expected to be highest.

The authorities have not announced a specific number of officers or roadside checks for the operation.

With more vehicles expected on the roads until Sunday, the GNR’s message is to plan journeys carefully, follow traffic rules and avoid unnecessary risks.

The increased enforcement will remain in place through 1 November.

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