Maribor's public transport authority calls for traffic misconduct to be transformed into good traffic habits

The police department in Maribor has launched a campaign aimed at transforming dangerous driving habits into responsible road behavior. The initiative continues with the goal of encouraging drivers to adopt safer practices and show greater respect for traffic regulations. Many participants have already embraced the #častneprometni movement, committing themselves to increased responsibility and adherence to road safety rules. In July of last year, the area under the jurisdiction of the Police Department in Maribor recorded one of the worst months in terms of traffic safety. Out of nine fatal accidents, three occurred during this period. Among the victims were two car drivers and a motorcycle rider. In all these incidents, the common factor was unadjusted speed. According to police reports, excessive speed is among the most frequent causes of severe traffic accidents. During the summer months, which typically see a rise in traffic-related incidents, five fatal accidents occurred. Three of these involved drivers who had consumed alcohol. The police warn that several factors contribute to reduced road safety during the summer. Higher temperatures can affect driver alertness, while increased traffic density and the presence of diverse road users, car drivers, motorcyclists, cyclists, and pedestrians, create additional risks. Drivers often choose speeds that exceed legal limits due to favorable driving conditions. Alcohol, drugs, fatigue, and inadequate preparation for long journeys further increase the danger. During holidays, travel periods, events, and gatherings, everyday traffic issues become more pronounced. Therefore, the police are not merely pointing out violations but are calling for behavioral change. They are using well-known figures such as Moto Gonzales, Reaktivec, and Multipraktik to encourage drivers to reconsider their habits, from speeding and using phones while driving to overconfidence or carelessness. The police department in Maribor urges all road users to recognize their bad habits and replace them with responsible conduct. Especially during the summer months, they recommend planning longer trips in advance, taking rest breaks, adjusting driving to road conditions, and maintaining a calm demeanor. The campaign has received support from numerous Slovenian celebrities, including the television presenter Natalija Bratković and comedian Martina Ipša. Both have joined the #častneprometni movement and called for responsible behavior on the roads. Their involvement underscores the broader societal effort to improve road safety through public engagement and awareness campaigns.