Drunk driver crashes into tree: B196 closed for hours!

Drunk driver crashes into tree: B196 closed for hours!

On Thursday morning, July 3, 2025, a serious accident occurred on federal highway 196 between Lanken-Granitz and Serams on Rügen. The 59-year-old driver, who was heavily intoxicated, lost control of his Skoda around 6:45 a.m. and crashed into a tree. According to the Ostsee-Zeitung, the man was not wearing a seat belt while driving, which led to his serious injuries. During the subsequent alcohol test, a level of 1.38 per mille was found - significantly above the legal limit of 0.5 per mille for drivers. The damage to the vehicle is estimated at around 20,000 euros and the car had to be towed away.

The accident led to the B 196 being completely closed for an hour; The road was then only passable on one side for another 30 minutes. The police have started an investigation into a violation of the road traffic regulations and the driver's license has been revoked. He was immediately taken to the hospital to receive medical treatment.

Drunk drivers – a growing problem

Alcohol violations in traffic are a constant issue in Germany. According to a current overview by Nordkurier, alcohol and drugs are common causes of traffic accidents with injuries. In the 2024 accident statistics, alcohol ranks fourth among the causes of accidents, behind excessive speed, failure to follow distance rules and failure to give way. It is becoming increasingly clear that the problem of driving under the influence of alcohol not only affects the drivers themselves, but also puts other road users at risk.

In Neubrandenburg, for example, the number of registered alcohol violations has risen continuously in recent years. From 518 cases in 2022 to 586 in 2023 and finally to 696 in 2024. The fact that the Schwerin police station only recorded 165 cases in 2024 shows the large regional variation - the Anklam police station, on the other hand, recorded 482 incidents in the same year. These figures suggest that improving road safety faces a major challenge.

A look at the statistics

The annual statistics of alcohol-related traffic accidents in Germany show a worrying trend. There were varying degrees of fluctuation between 1995 and 2023, but the dangers of drunk driving remain consistently high. A report from the Federal Statistical Office highlights that significant mixed consumption of alcohol and drugs can also be observed among other road users, such as cyclists and e-scooter users.

Experts warn that the number of unreported cases is high because it is difficult to determine actual consumption patterns. However, the police are recording more violations due to increased checks, which could indicate increased pressure to punish these offenses. Mixed consumption can result in a fine of up to 5,000 euros - a clear indication that the authorities show no tolerance.