From 15 to 21 December 2025 the police in East Hesse will carry out intensified traffic checks as part of the Europe‑wide ROADPOL “Alcohol and Drugs” campaign, aiming to curb driving under the influence of alcohol or narcotics.
Recent accident figures underline the need for action
In 2024, 224 traffic collisions in East Hesse involved drivers who were under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs – a decline of 32 incidents compared with the previous year. Nevertheless, 37.5 % of these crashes resulted in injuries or fatalities, highlighting the persistent danger of impaired driving.
Why the checks matter now
Driving under the influence remains one of the leading causes of serious road accidents. Unlike alcohol, many illicit substances can remain detectable in the body for extended periods, depending on the drug, the individual’s metabolism and usage frequency, potentially impairing driving ability long after consumption.
Cannabis legalization adds a new dimension
Following the recent legalization of cannabis, authorities stress the continued necessity of roadside testing to enforce the existing prohibition on operating a vehicle while intoxicated. Regular checks, both during designated campaigns and throughout the year, help maintain a high detection risk for impaired drivers.
What may happen next
The intensified checks could lead to a measurable drop in alcohol‑ and drug‑related crashes during and after the campaign period. If the operation proves effective, police may consider extending such focused inspections or integrating them more deeply into routine traffic enforcement across East Hesse.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ROADPOL “Alcohol and Drugs” action?
It is a Europe‑wide police campaign that, in East Hesse, will involve intensified traffic controls between 15 December and 21 December 2025 to reduce driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs.
How many accidents in East Hesse involved alcohol or drugs in 2024?
In 2024, 224 traffic accidents were recorded where the responsible drivers were under the influence of alcohol and/or narcotics, representing a reduction of 32 incidents from the previous year.
Why are additional controls emphasized after cannabis legalization?
Although cannabis is now legal, operating a vehicle while intoxicated remains prohibited. Ongoing checks aim to remind drivers of this rule and to detect impairment, as some substances can affect driving ability for longer periods than alcohol.
How do you think intensified road checks will influence driver behaviour in the coming months?