Number of Deaths in Traffic Accidents Involving Drugs Explodes

2024 saw the third-highest number of alcohol-related accidents since the start of digital records. Additionally, there was a record number of fatalities in drug-related accidents last year. The ÖAMTC warned on Monday, among other things, of rising accident numbers involving drugs and alcohol. "Whether you're driving a car, a scooter, or a bicycle - the consumption of alcohol and drugs impairs the perception of the traffic environment," said ÖAMTC traffic psychologist Marion Seidenberger.

"Furthermore, it limits the correct application of rule knowledge, reaction performance, and fine motor skills - often first and foremost vision. Moreover, consumption often conveys a deceptive, improved self-assessment of performance. All of this usually goes hand in hand with a false willingness to take risks," warned Seidenberger. The expert from the mobility club therefore appealed to everyone to participate in road traffic only "clean" and in full possession of their own abilities.

"Don't Drive Under Influence. Stay in Control"

"Don't Drive Under Influence. Stay in Control" is the slogan of an FIA road safety campaign that highlights the risks of driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs, supported by the ÖAMTC. "Staying in control means recognizing these dangers and making the right decision before getting behind the wheel or grabbing the handlebars. By committing to sober and attentive driving, we not only protect our own lives but also the lives of everyone we share the road with," explained Seidenberger. The FIA is the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile, the international umbrella organization of worldwide mobility and automobile clubs from 146 countries.

Numerous Drug-Related Accidents with Personal Injury

With 7.3 percent of all traffic accidents in 2024, alcohol-related accidents reached the third-highest level since the start of digital records in 1992. It was surpassed only in the past two years with 7.5 and eight percent. In these incidents, 3,340 people were injured and 33 people were killed. Additionally, in 2024, there were a total of 176 drug-related accidents with personal injury in road traffic in Austria, an increase of 16 percent compared to the previous year. Twelve people lost their lives, twice as many as in 2023 and the highest number since records began in 2012. Six of the twelve fatalities were themselves under the influence of drugs, while the other six victims were not impaired by drugs. 88 percent of those involved under the influence of drugs were men.

Although most alcohol-related accidents in 2024 were caused by car drivers (2024: 48 percent), the numbers in this segment are declining, while the involvement of users of other forms of mobility is increasing: 25 percent were on a bicycle last year, 11.5 percent used scooters or e-scooters, and five percent motorcycles.

(APA/Red)

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