The speed limit in urban areas in Hungary was reduced from 60 to 50 km/h in 1993. For some months there was considerable opposition and lack of observance. The causes were found to be: limit is unjustified if visibility is good; lack of risk awareness; general opposition to rules and regulations; low subjective probability of police control; overestimation of one's skill and abilities. Drivers also often adapt to the speed of other vehicles. Drink driving is prohibited by severe regulations in Hungary. Alcohol impairment is considered to exist if BAC exceeds 0.08% and BrAC 0.5 mg/l. During 1985-87 number of drink driving accidents decreased, due mostly to successful publicity campaign. 1990 was a black year for accidents. Owing to the change in the political system, road safety received little attention, and the police reduced the number of road controls. in 1991 there was a decrease and in 1993 number of accidents returned to pre-1989 levels. A national road safety programme was introduced and there was increased police presence on the roads. 97% of drink drivers are men. Most drink driving accidents occur in the 20-24 and 30-39 age groups. Drivers who lose their licence only get it back after participating in a driver improvement programme.
Samenvatting