European police launch coordinated road safety checks against driver distraction

European police forces are launching a coordinated road safety operation titled “Focus on the Road” from October 5 to October 11. Coordinated by the European Roads Policing Network (ROADPOL), the initiative targets driver distractions, specifically the use of mobile phones and other electronic devices while operating vehicles.

In Hungary, the National Police Headquarters announced enhanced checks to combat activities such as reading messages, browsing social media, or watching videos while driving. This follows previous campaigns where over 1,500 drivers were caught using handheld devices in a single week.

Other participating countries include Croatia, which will also inspect seatbelt compliance, and Slovenia, where officers will focus on equipment that impairs vehicle control. In Serbia, the operation extends to pedestrians, checking for illegal mobile phone and headphone use while crossing streets. While Austria is a member of ROADPOL, specific official confirmation for this particular week's participation was not immediately available, though national laws regarding hands-free device usage remain strictly enforced.