The dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs

With the Advent season approaching, company parties and private events are on the increase. But it's important to remember: driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly increases the risk of accidents. Driving while impaired can have serious legal and personal consequences, even if you’re not involved in an accident.
 

Alcohol is one of the biggest risk factors in road traffic. In 2024, 469 people were seriously injured and 36 died in accidents involving alcohol. Accidents of this kind frequently occur on weekend nights.

Experience shows that alcohol consumption increases during the festive season – and with it, the risk of traffic accidents, as the Central Swiss police forces stated in a recent joint press release. Even small amounts of alcohol impair coordination, concentration, and reaction time.

Anyone who drives under the influence of alcohol or drugs endangers both themselves and others. Even without an accident, a police check can result in criminal penalties, up to and including the withdrawal of your driver's licence.

A police officer conducts a breathalyser test                         Photo: Severin Bigler
 

To ensure everyone's safety on the road, the Central Swiss police forces remind all road users of their personal responsibility.

The police therefore advise as follows:

• Leave your vehicle at home if you are attending events where you might consume alcohol. Use public transportation, taxis, or, where available, services such as those offered by the Nez Rouge campaign.
• Organise carpools. Agree beforehand on who will drive and will thereby refrain from consuming alcohol.
• Do not travel with people who are unfit to drive, and prevent them from driving.
• If you have consumed alcohol: do not drive under any circumstances.
• Alcohol is metabolised slowly, so never drive with a hangover.
• Never drive under the influence of drugs or medication.

"The Central Swiss police forces wish you safe and accident-free travel and a wonderful Advent season."