Suche
Mein Konto
Drug influence: Driver rams van and causes motorway closure!
A 48-year-old drugged driver collided with a van on the A24 near Zarrentin, the highway was closed.
Drug influence: Driver rams van and causes motorway closure!
A scandalous incident occurred on Monday evening on Autobahn 24 between Berlin and Hamburg. At around 10:40 p.m., a van was rammed near Zarrentin (Ludwigslust-Parchim) by a 48-year-old BMW driver, possibly under the influence of drugs and alcohol. The accident meant that the motorway in the direction of Hamburg had to be closed, which resulted in significant traffic delays.
The driver who was hit suffered minor injuries and had to be taken to a hospital. His vehicle, like the one who caused the accident, was so badly damaged that both cars had to be towed away. The estimated material damage is at least 45,000 euros. The suspected cause of the accident abruptly changed lanes in an area with a speed limit of 60 km/h and collided with the van. His breath alcohol sample showed a blood alcohol level of 0.33, and a drug test showed that he had consumed amphetamines and methamphetamines. He also had to hand in his driver's license and take a blood sample at the clinic. It is already clear that he will face criminal charges.
The effects of drugs and alcohol on the road
The link between drug use and road safety is an issue that should be taken seriously. Studies show that 90 to 99 percent of all traffic accidents are due to human error. This also includes the influence of alcohol and drugs, which have remained a central problem in recent decades. Alcohol remains the main concern, even though the consumption of illegal drugs among road users is increasing these days. The risk of an accident increases noticeably with the level of blood alcohol concentration, although the driving experience can become similarly dangerous due to the consumption of drugs such as amphetamines.
The legal framework for drug use on the road has also changed. Since April 1, 2024, the Consumer Cannabis Act (KCanG) has permitted the possession, consumption and cultivation of cannabis under certain conditions. It is important to mention that there is currently no set limit for THC, the psychoactive ingredient in cannabis, similar to the alcohol limit of 0.5 per mille. However, any breach of the regulations remains serious and can lead to legal consequences.
These events highlight the need for urgently reformed road safety measures. Road users should always reflect on their own behavior and be aware of the dangers of drug and alcohol consumption. Ultimately, the protection of all road users is a common concern and everyone can do their part.
The highway was reopened after midnight, but the memories of this dangerous incident will likely remain in the minds of those affected for a long time.