In the period before Christmas, as well as during the holidays, many families set off by car to visit their loved ones. Even if the journey is not far for some, it should be safe.

Unfortunately, this is not always the case. Last year, between 22 and 26 December, 1 person died and 32 were injured in 23 accidents. This is admittedly fewer incidents than are often recorded on working days. Nevertheless, a lack of caution and recklessness on the roads remain the main causes of the accidents.

In response to the identified risks, the police will intensify their activities on the roads during these critical days in order to ensure maximum safety for all travellers, especially on departure days and the day of return.

During this exceptional period, police officers will make every effort to support travellers, focusing their activities in particular on providing road users with all necessary assistance.

The officers say:

There can be no leniency for people who grossly violate traffic regulations and thereby expose others to the risk of losing their lives or health.

Therefore, during the Safe Christmas 2018 operation, police officers serving on the roads will pay particular attention to drivers’ sobriety, the technical condition of vehicles and the way passengers—especially children—are transported. By checking driving speeds, they will also remind drivers that lost time cannot be made up during a holiday journey.

When driving a vehicle, drivers are responsible not only for their own safety, but also for the safety of others. Passengers, in turn, should be aware that although they are not driving the vehicle, they can influence travel safety, for example by wearing seat belts or refusing to accept a driver exceeding the speed limit or, worse, getting behind the wheel after consuming alcohol or substances with effects similar to alcohol (drugs, medication). Last year, as many as 97 intoxicated drivers were arrested during the holiday period.

What does the police advise?

We should also take special care of the youngest road users by ensuring they travel safely in a child safety seat that meets the appropriate technical requirements.

Let us also remember to prepare our car for the journey. In winter conditions, we should first check the lights, brakes and operating fluids, and of course fit winter tyres.

In conditions of poor visibility, drivers notice unlit obstacles on the road later than usual, especially pedestrians wearing clothing whose colour is similar to their surroundings (black or grey). Pedestrians should therefore wear reflective elements in a way that makes them visible to vehicle drivers. We remind you that this is obligatory for all pedestrians who move along a carriageway or shoulder after dark outside built-up areas. It is worth taking care of your safety by wearing a reflective element in built-up areas as well.

The officers add:

During this festive period, let us take care of safety while travelling so that our Christmas is peaceful, family-oriented and, above all, safe.