New figures from the National Police (Rigspolitiet), presented by the Council for Safe Traffic and Alcohol & Society, point to a worrying pattern among drunk drivers. Over half of the drivers who were charged for driving under the influence in the period from 2018 to 2022 had a blood alcohol level above 1.2. According to experts, this indicates that many of these drivers have a serious alcohol problem.
Pernille Sølund Ehlers, chief consultant at the Council for Safe Traffic, stated in a press release that drivers with such high blood alcohol levels pose a significant danger to both themselves and other road users. She believes that the high levels of alcohol suggest that many of the drunk drivers suffer from an actual alcohol problem.
Both the Council for Safe Traffic and Alcohol & Society are calling for earlier and more consistent intervention. It is not only about preventing an intoxicated person from getting behind the wheel after a party but also about taking action if you know someone with an alcohol problem who occasionally drives under the influence.
Bjarne Stenger Elholm, head of Alkolinjen at Alcohol & Society, points out that there is often a long period between when a person acknowledges their alcohol problem and when they seek treatment. During this period, the person may engage in drunk driving several times. He emphasizes that surroundings can play a crucial role in intervening and informing about the options for free and anonymous counseling and help.
Some police districts already offer that individuals charged with alcohol or drug driving offenses can be contacted by a substance abuse counselor, and around a quarter accept this offer. Statistics also show that one in five traffic fatalities involves alcohol.
It is clear that a more proactive approach from both authorities and surroundings can help reduce the tragic consequences of drunk driving on the roads.