Road safety in the Czech Republic is continuously improving: in 2024, the country recorded fewer road deaths, injuries, and offences. Young drivers, in particular, are benefiting from new programmes such as L17, which promotes driving with a mentor and strengthens a sense of responsibility.
The accident statistics for 2024 show significant improvements: fewer deaths, injuries, and traffic offences, especially among young drivers. The L17 programme, which enables novice drivers aged 17 and over to drive with a mentor, makes a substantial contribution to this. Young drivers are becoming more responsible, and alcohol- and drug-related accidents are also declining.
“We have recorded the lowest number of seriously injured and killed pedestrians since records began. The number of alcohol-related accidents has also fallen significantly. Last year, up to 20% of novice drivers aged 17 and over took the opportunity to drive under the supervision of a mentor,” explains Transport Minister Martin Kupka.
In 2024, the number of fatal accidents fell by 17 compared to the previous year, to a total of 438 fatalities. The number of reckless drivers also dropped by 44%, with a fifth fewer offences committed by drivers using mobile phones at the wheel. Offences committed by drivers under the influence of alcohol or other drugs also decreased by 10%. Speeding offences also fell by 10%.
Driving from the Age of 17 with a Mentor Is Gaining Popularity
The L17 programme, which allows drivers to start driving from the age of 17 with a mentor, is becoming increasingly popular. Up to 20% of novice drivers have taken advantage of this option. An analysis of offences shows that young L17 drivers are more responsible, committing only 8.4% of offences compared to drivers aged 18 and over.
“The L17 programme demonstrates the value of educating young people to be responsible at an early age and encouraging family support. We will continue to expand this programme and provide more support for both the education of young drivers and their mentors,” emphasises Tomas Neřold, Head of BESIP (Road Safety Department).
In 2024, the Ministry of Transport and BESIP placed a special focus on education. Special campaigns such as ‘Kamarádi v automobilu’ (Friends in the Car) and ‘Nultá hodina autoškoly’ (Zero Hour Driving School) have received positive feedback and reached thousands of young people. The ‘Nultá hodina’ programme has already been implemented in over 100 schools and will continue this year.
