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Extra police checks across Andalucía as drink and drug driving controls increase this Christmas
The DGT steps up roadside testing and local councils tighten safety as the festive season gets into full swing
Drivers in Andalucía can expect to see more roadside police checks this week as the Spanish Directorate General of Traffic (DGT) launches a new campaign to reduce accidents caused by drink and drug driving. The initiative, which began on Monday December 15 and runs until Sunday December 21, coincides with the busiest week of Christmas social gatherings - a time when company dinners, family events and festive nights out often involve alcohol.According to the Government Delegate in Andalucía, Pedro Fernández, officers from the Traffic Group of the Guardia Civil (ATGC) and participating local police forces will conduct checks on all types of roads, both urban and intercity, at any time of day or night. “The previous campaign held in August saw 36,227 drivers tested,” he explained, “and 726 of them, about 2%, were under the influence of alcohol or drugs, posing a risk to everyone on the road.”
Fernández reminded drivers of the serious effects alcohol has on driving ability, including slower reaction times, poorer coordination and overconfidence behind the wheel. “These substances increase the likelihood and severity of accidents. The only safe limit is zero,” he said, urging motorists to make responsible choices, especially during the busy festive season.
The latest national figures show that in 2024, 1,785 people were killed in 101,996 traffic accidents across Spain. While fatal crashes were down slightly compared to 2023, alcohol and drug use remain major concerns, contributing to 12% of all accidents and 28% of fatal incidents. In total, those substances were involved in 273 fatal cases last year.
Córdoba leads by example with a dedicated Christmas safety plan
One city taking extra precautions is Córdoba, where the Ayuntamiento has introduced a comprehensive Christmas Traffic and Safety Plan covering the period from Friday December 19 to Tuesday January 6. The operation will involve nearly 900 officers from the Policia Local, Policia Nacional and Guardia Civil, carrying out more than 1,000 alcohol and drug tests at key points around the city.
Deputy municipal spokesperson Cintia Bustos said the plan aims to ensure “people’s safety, improve mobility and promote coexistence” during one of the busiest times of the year. Extra patrols will target large events, shopping areas and areas with Christmas activities such as the city centre and Plaza de las Tendillas.
Mayor José María Bellido added that the entire police force will be involved, with extra reinforcements on the busiest dates such as December 23, 24, 25 and 31, and January 5 for the Three Kings Parade. The Deputy Government Delegate, Ana López, confirmed that around 250 Policia Nacional officers will be on patrol, with another 150 Civil Guard members and 400 local agents handling traffic, noise control and compliance with local regulations.
Authorities have stressed that public cooperation is vital to ensure a safe and trouble-free Christmas across Andalucía. As Fernández put it simply, “We all share the responsibility of keeping our roads and our communities safe - so this year, celebrate responsibly and leave the car if you’ve been drinking.”
Image: Chatgpt
