167 killed in traffic in Serbia this year; police announce increased controls before summer season
Translated from Serbian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Serbia has seen 167 traffic fatalities and over 7,000 injuries this year, a significant improvement from last year.
- Despite the decrease, authorities emphasize that the number of daily fatalities remains unacceptable.
- Enhanced traffic controls and international campaigns against drunk driving are planned, especially before the summer season.
Serbia has recorded 167 traffic fatalities and over 7,000 injuries so far this year, marking a considerable improvement compared to the same period last year, according to Colonel Aleksandar Radenkoviฤ of the Traffic Police Directorate. This represents a decrease of 30 deaths and approximately 500 injuries.
We cannot speak of any satisfaction, although a step forward has been made. If we consider these figures, it is clear that more than one person dies on average per day. So, we cannot be satisfied, but on the other hand, it is significant that progress has been made
However, Radenkoviฤ stressed that these figures do not bring satisfaction. "We cannot speak of any satisfaction, although a step forward has been made. If we consider these figures, it is clear that more than one person dies on average per day. So, we cannot be satisfied, but on the other hand, it is significant that progress has been made," he stated. The Traffic Police Directorate aims to increase the number of days without fatalities through intensified controls and preventive activities.
Radenkoviฤ urged all road users to contribute positively by adhering to regulations to improve traffic safety. He noted that the period preceding the summer holidays has historically seen unfavorable traffic safety conditions, with nine fatalities recorded during the weekend before the start of school holidays last year.
the number of days without fatalities
In preparation for the summer travel season, the traffic police will focus on managing traffic flow, particularly around toll stations on highways, as many families begin their vacations. Additionally, from June 15 to June 21, Serbia will participate in a Europe-wide campaign targeting drunk and drugged driving, organized by Roadpol, the European network of traffic police. Radenkoviฤ highlighted that driving under the influence, along with speeding and not wearing seatbelts, remains a major traffic safety issue both in Serbia and across Europe. A special "Alcohol and Drugs Marathon" is scheduled for June 19, involving 24-hour testing.
driving under the influence, along with speeding and not wearing seatbelts, is traditionally one of the biggest traffic safety problems
Originally published by N1 Serbia in Serbian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.