Tragic incident in Mannheim: Pedestrian injured by bus at 4 per mille

Tragic incident in Mannheim: Pedestrian injured by bus at 4 per mille

A shocking incident occurred yesterday in Mannheim when a 39-year-old pedestrian was hit by a bus driver. The bus driver, a 61-year-old woman, waited at a pedestrian traffic light and drove off when the light was green while the pedestrian crossed the street, even though the traffic light must have been red for him. The bus, which was moving at walking speed, was unable to brake in time, resulting in a collision in which the man was injured in the back of the head and had to be taken to hospital. What is worrying is the pedestrian's alcohol level, which was almost 4 per mille, which, according to Get off the gas, drastically increases the risk of an accident. It is currently unclear whether his high alcohol level was the cause of the accident. The Ladenburg police station is conducting the investigation.

Drunk driving is still a major problem. According to Destatis, statistics show that although the number of alcohol-related accidents has decreased in recent years, there were still 214 deaths and almost 20,000 injuries as a result of such accidents in 2022. Compared to 2021 figures, this was a worrying increase of 67 deaths and 3,758 injuries.

Alcohol influence and road safety

The dangers associated with drunk driving have long been known. The risk of accidents doubles from just 0.5 per mille, and at 1.5 per mille the risk is more than 25 times higher. On holidays such as New Year's Eve or Ascension Day, as well as at major events, there is a significant increase in alcohol-related accidents, as Get off the gas emphasizes. Young road users in particular, especially men between the ages of 25 and 34, are often involved in such accidents. Your lack of driving experience and a risky lifestyle play a decisive role.

To counteract the danger and ensure that celebrations do not end in tragedy, it is advisable to appoint a “Designated Driver”. This way someone stays sober and ensures the safety of everyone traveling with them. The body usually breaks down alcohol at a rate of around 0.15 per mille per hour, although this rate can vary depending on body weight and individual constitution.

Statistical backgrounds

According to Destatis, traffic accident statistics play a crucial role in shaping transport policy in Germany. It forms the basis for measures in the areas of legislation, traffic education and road construction. By comprehensively recording accidents, those involved and vehicles, the traffic situation in Germany can be sustainably improved.

The tragic events in Mannheim are another alarm call to take the issue of “drink driving” seriously and to increase road safety in our cities. Raising awareness of this issue remains a key challenge, especially during times of celebrations and social gatherings.