Recent data from the Guardia Civil Traffic Group’s (ATGC) December campaign highlights a worrying rise in drivers testing positive for drugs, while alcohol-related offences remain stable.
The campaign, conducted from December 16 to 22, involved 251,140 alcohol and drug tests. That´s 23,000 more than the previous summer campaign.
Of the drivers tested, 4,172 were found to have consumed alcohol or drugs. Alarmingly, 88% of these detections occurred during preventive checks, underscoring their critical role in ensuring road safety.
Alcohol detection results
A total of 245,896 alcohol tests were conducted, resulting in 1,974 positive cases. Most detections (1,696) came from preventive controls, while others were linked to traffic offences (98), accidents (169), or visible symptoms of alcohol consumption (11).
Among these offenders, 249 drivers exceeded the legal limit of 0.60 mg/l in exhaled air, leading to judicial proceedings. Additionally, 11 drivers refused breathalyser tests and were referred to court for non-compliance.
Notably, 6,179 drivers were found to have consumed alcohol below the legal limit. This group included 5,830 drivers identified during preventive checks, 308 linked to offences, 39 involved in accidents, and 4 exhibiting symptoms. While these individuals did not breach legal limits, their presence on the roads still represents a heightened accident risk.
Rise in drug-positive cases
Drug tests conducted during the campaign totalled 5,244, with 2,198 preliminary positives—a three-percentage-point increase compared to the summer campaign. Of these cases, 1,971 were identified in preventive controls, 126 linked to offences, and 101 to accidents. Cannabis, cocaine, and amphetamines were the most commonly detected substances, with 1,788, 660, and 145 cases, respectively.
Six drivers were referred to judicial authorities for driving under the influence of narcotics. Meanwhile, others faced administrative penalties for endangering themselves and other road users.
Preventive measures and awareness
The campaign’s findings highlight the ongoing importance of preventive checks in deterring impaired driving. The detection of drivers with alcohol levels below the legal limit reinforces the message that even minimal consumption can increase accident risks. Alcohol remains a factor in 26% of fatal road accidents in Spain, making continued vigilance essential.
Police collaboration and ongoing efforts
The success of the campaign was bolstered by coordination with local and regional police forces, who conducted tests on both inter-city and urban roads. Data from these operations will be integrated into the overall findings.
Guardia Civil officers will persist in conducting random alcohol and drug tests across all road types. These efforts aim to reduce impaired driving and enhance road safety, sending a clear message to drivers about the dangers of substance use behind the wheel.
The December campaign’s results underscore the critical need for preventive controls and public awareness. With drug-related cases on the rise and alcohol continuing to contribute to road fatalities, authorities are intensifying efforts to combat impaired driving. Drivers are reminded that the only safe level of alcohol or drug consumption when driving is zero.