Drunk driving: Two injured after rear-end collision on the A8!

Drunk driving: Two injured after rear-end collision on the A8!

On Friday evening, October 23, 2025, there was a serious rear-end collision on the A8 near Pforzheim. The accident occurred around 7 p.m. between the Pforzheim-Süd and Heimsheim junctions and affected a 57-year-old Mazda driver and a Mercedes driver in front. Both drivers sustained minor injuries and had to be taken to hospital. This incident has once again brought awareness to the risks of driving under the influence.

As ka-news.de reports, it turned out that the Mazda driver had a breath alcohol level of over 1.2 per mille. This is not only serious in terms of his inability to drive, but also legally questionable, as he will have to face criminal charges. The police ordered a blood test to determine the exact alcohol content. The damage to the two vehicles is estimated at a mid-five-figure amount.

Risks and regulations relating to drunk driving

The discussion about driving under the influence of alcohol is not new. Recently, on June 23, 2025, the police in Pforzheim conducted a traffic stop during which two drunk drivers were stopped. The 37-year-old driver of a Skoda had a breath alcohol level of over 2.0 per mille and had to undergo a blood test in hospital, while a 39-year-old BMW driver got away with around 0.5 per mille but still has to expect a fine and points in Flensburg. According to presseportal.de such controls are necessary to increase road safety.

The alcohol limits for drivers in Germany are clearly defined. Up to the age of 21 and novice drivers in their probationary period, there is an absolute alcohol ban of 0.0 per mille. Above 0.3 per mille there is a risk of relative inability to drive, while at 0.5 per mille it is an administrative offense that can result in a fine of 500 euros. Above 1.1 per mille, there is absolute inability to drive, which is a punishable offense and, depending on the severity of the offense, can lead to the loss of a driver's license and possible prison sentences. This is explained by adac.de.

An appeal to road users

The risks of drinking alcohol behind the wheel are undeniable. The police advise always leaving vehicles parked after consuming alcohol and planning the journey home in advance, be it by public transport or taxis. Civil courage is required when it comes to speaking to other drivers who may be under the influence of alcohol.

In conclusion, it can be said that the incident on the A8 is not just an isolated case, but should serve as a reminder for all road users. Using alcohol responsibly is essential to avoid accidents and ensure your own safety and that of other road users.