This week, the Provincial Traffic Department has initiated a focused campaign to monitor alcohol and drug consumption among drivers across the Region of Murcia.
Running until Sunday, December 22, the Civil Guard plans to inspect around 5,000 vehicles on interurban roads and conduct approximately 110 drug tests. Additionally, local police forces from 30 municipalities participating in the campaign will intensify checks on urban roads under their jurisdiction.
Virginia Jerez, the Provincial Head of Traffic, emphasized the importance of these measures:
“Zero tolerance for high-risk behaviour is a key pillar of the Spanish Road Safety Strategy 2030. Preventive controls play a crucial role in reducing dangerous behaviours that threaten both traffic safety and lives.”
In 2024, authorities conducted 175,500 alcohol tests, of which 2,259 returned positive results—1.29% of the total. During the same period, 2,694 drug tests were performed, with 1,267 (47%) showing positive results.
Concerning Statistics on Traffic Fatalities
The urgency of the campaign is underscored by fatality statistics from 2023 in the Region of Murcia:
53 fatalities were recorded from 53 road accidents.
Toxicological tests revealed that 53% of drivers involved in these accidents had consumed alcohol or drugs.
On interurban roads: Of the 26 drivers who died, 50% tested positive for alcohol or drugs.
On urban roads: Of the 9 drivers who died, 62% tested positive.
The statistics for pedestrian fatalities further highlight the issue:
10 pedestrians died in traffic incidents. Toxicological tests revealed that 30% had consumed alcohol or drugs.
On interurban roads, 43% of deceased pedestrians (3 out of 7) tested positive, while none of the urban pedestrian fatalities were linked to substance use.
Notably, 86% of drivers on interurban roads who died without using safety measures (such as seat belts or helmets) had consumed alcohol or drugs, linking impaired judgment to unsafe practices.
Alcohol and Drug Use: A Leading Cause of Point Deductions
In 2023, alcohol consumption was the third leading cause of driver’s license point deductions in the Region of Murcia, with 12,416 points lost. Drug use accounted for 5,370 points deducted.
By October 31, 2024, the situation had worsened, with 19,166 points deducted for alcohol and drug-related offenses—surpassing mobile phone use (15,786 points) and speeding (14,162 points) as the leading causes of point deductions.
The Way Forward
This special campaign aims to address high-risk behaviours and prevent future tragedies. By raising awareness and increasing enforcement, authorities hope to foster safer driving practices and protect lives on the roads of Murcia.
