Europe is holding a week of sobriety on the roads: police are conducting mass checks on drivers

A week of mass checks on drivers for alcohol and drugs has begun in EU countries. Find out why you should be careful behind the wheel and what consequences await violators

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On June 16, a large-scale police operation called “Alcohol and Drugs” began in all European Union countries, initiated by the European Traffic Police Network ROADPOL. Throughout the week, law enforcement officers will be conducting increased checks on drivers for alcohol and drug intoxication, with the main event being a 24-hour check on Friday — a real “sobriety marathon” on EU roads.

Such campaigns are carried out regularly as part of ROADPOL safety initiatives, but right now the situation requires special attention due to the increasing number of accidents caused by drunk drivers.

Why alcohol and drug testing of drivers is important: shocking statistics

According to law enforcement officials, one in five serious accidents in Europe is caused by a driver under the influence of alcohol or drugs. In Poland alone, according to in-poland, more than 90,000 drunk drivers were arrested in 2024. That is an average of 252 people every day.

It is also noted that in just one day, on June 16, the police recorded 308 cases of drunk driving. These data confirm an alarming trend: despite strict legislation, the problem remains relevant.

How driver checks are carried out in the EU: be prepared for stops at every turn

During Sobriety Week, police patrols are working in enhanced mode, stopping cars for express testing for alcohol and drugs. Checks are carried out both on major roads and in cities, especially during rush hour and in the evening.

On Friday, as part of a 24-hour campaign, there is expected to be a particularly high concentration of patrols working in shifts without interruption throughout the day.

Drivers are advised to plan their routes in advance, have all documents with them, and, of course, refrain from consuming alcohol or psychoactive substances before driving.

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What are the penalties for drunk driving in the EU?

1. Fines: can reach several thousand euros

2. Driving ban: even for a first offense

3. Imprisonment: for serious or repeat offenses

4. Confiscation of the car: in some countries

5. Criminal record: which affects future employment

6. Problems with car insurance

These penalties may vary depending on the country and the severity of the offense, but all EU countries are united in their fight against drunk driving.

What is the legal blood alcohol limit for driving in the EU?

EU legislation clearly regulates the legal blood alcohol limits and the penalties for violating them. The permissible blood alcohol level varies from 0.0 to 0.5, depending on the country:

Germany

● Permissible alcohol level: up to 0.5‰ (0.0‰ for novice and professional drivers)

● Fine: from €500

● Disqualification: 1 to 3 months

● Other: possibility of undergoing a medical-psychological examination (MPU) to regain driving privileges

France

● Permitted alcohol level: 0.5‰ (0.2‰ for novice and professional drivers)

● Fine: up to €4,500

● Imprisonment: up to 2 years

● Disqualification: up to 3 years

Poland

● Permitted blood alcohol level: up to 0.2‰

● Fine: from PLN 5,000 (~€1,100)

● Disqualification: from 1 year to 15 years

● Imprisonment: up to 2 years in case of repeat offenses or accidents

Italy

● Permitted blood alcohol level: 0.5‰

● Fine: from €500 to €6,000

● Disqualification: from 3 months to 2 years

● Imprisonment: up to 2 years

● Additional penalties: confiscation of the vehicle, especially if the blood alcohol level exceeds 1.5‰

Spain

● Permitted blood alcohol level: 0.5‰ (0.3‰ for novice and professional drivers)

● Fine: €500–€1,000

● Disqualification: 1 to 4 years

● Imprisonment: up to 6 months

Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary

● Zero tolerance policy: 0.0‰

● Fine: €100–1,000

● License suspension: up to 3 years

● Additional penalties: criminal liability for repeat offenses or accidents

Ukrainians traveling or working in Europe should remember that European police officers act in accordance with the law, regardless of the offender's citizenship. Therefore, even a short trip or transit through Poland, Hungary, the Czech Republic, Germany, or another country during the “Alcohol and Drugs” campaign can have serious consequences.

It is also important not to forget to obtain an international insurance policy, the Green Card, which not only provides financial protection in the event of an accident but is also mandatory for travel in Europe. You can obtain a Green Card quickly and conveniently online at the Visit Ukraine portal.

We remind you! The EU is introducing new rules for older drivers aimed at improving road safety and creating a responsible culture of mobility. Read what drivers should prepare for in our previous article.

Photo: Getty Images

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