Driving Safely During the Holidays: Combating Increased Winter Dangers

The end-of-year holidays, a time of conviviality and celebration, are unfortunately accompanied by a significant increase in road risks. In France, this period is marked by an increase in alcohol and drug consumption, more difficult driving conditions due to winter, and increased road checks. Find out how to anticipate these dangers to ensure your safety and that of others.

Increase in alcohol and drug consumption at the end of the year

• Holiday meals and festive evenings encourage excessive consumption of alcohol and, in some cases, drugs.

• Around 32% of French people consider the end-of-year holidays as a time for introducing people to alcohol, particularly for young people.

• According to ONISR, alcohol increases the risk of fatal accidents by 8 , and the combined consumption of alcohol and cannabis can increase this risk by 14 .

Winter conditions amplify dangers

• Decrease in light : In winter, night falls from the end of the afternoon, reducing visibility on the roads.

• Vehicle heating : High temperatures in the passenger compartment can cause increased drowsiness, increasing the risk of accidents.

• Weather conditions : Slippery roads, fog or freezing rain make driving more difficult.

The shocking figures of road accidents in winter

• In 2022, 3,267 deaths were recorded on French roads, a significant proportion of which were linked to alcohol or drugs.

• Between December 20 and January 1, an average of 27 bodily injuries and 3 deaths were recorded each day.

• Drug use doubles the risk of a fatal accident, and this probability explodes when consumed in combination with alcohol.

Reinforcement of road checks at the end of the year

To limit risky behavior, law enforcement is deploying specific measures during the holiday season. In 2023, nearly 8.1 million alcohol tests were carried out in France, with a positivity rate of 3%. For narcotics, 968,102 tests showed a positivity rate of 14%. These checks particularly target festive areas and major roads.

Tips for a safe holiday season

• Plan your trips : Organize your trips in advance and identify alternative transportation solutions.

• Plan for a “Sam” (sober driver) : Make sure one person in your party remains completely sober.

• Self-screening : Use alcohol or drug tests before driving.

• Alternative transport : Use taxis, VTCs or public transport if you have consumed substances.

• Control the temperature in your vehicle : Avoid overheating and ventilate regularly to prevent drowsiness.

• Pay attention to road conditions : Slow down and adapt your driving to the weather conditions.

Saliva drug test: a key tool to prevent party accidents

Saliva drug tests play a vital role in preventing accidents during the holiday season. These devices can quickly detect the presence of substances such as THC, cocaine or amphetamines in drivers, thereby reducing risky behaviour on the road. Easy to use and reliable, saliva tests are particularly suitable for increased roadside checks in winter, where alcohol and drugs are often involved in fatal accidents. Whether for personal or professional use, these tests are an essential tool to ensure everyone's safety, particularly during festive journeys in winter conditions.

 

Conclusion

The holiday season is a time for sharing and joy, but it must not turn into a road tragedy. Adopting responsible behavior, complying with road checks and taking preventive measures helps protect your life and that of others.

Stay vigilant and make safety your priority to fully enjoy this festive period.