Attica breathalyzer tests surge, reducing drunk driving rates

Increased police activity and breathalyzer testing in Attica has led to a significant drop in the percentage of drivers found under the influence. According to Hellenic Police data, the rate of intoxicated drivers fell to 0.8% during the first eight months of 2026, compared to 6.8% during the same period in 2025.

Traffic police operations increased by 30%, rising from 4,000 to 5,200 units. This surge in presence resulted in a massive increase in breathalyzer tests, which jumped from 108,000 to 1,030,000—an increase of approximately 850%. Despite the vast number of additional tests, the actual number of drivers exceeding legal alcohol limits only rose slightly from 7,347 to 8,294.

Police officials attribute this trend to a combination of increased personnel deployment in new locations and a shifting cultural attitude among drivers regarding the risks and penalties of drunk driving.