Serbia launches Drive Rested campaign to curb fatigue‑related crashes

Serbia has started the "Drive Rested" road‑safety campaign, coordinated by the Agency for Traffic Safety (ABS) together with the Ministry of the Interior, Roads of Serbia, the Auto‑Moto Union, the Tourist Organization and EKO Serbia. The programme, now in its tenth summer season, aims to lower traffic accidents caused by driver fatigue. Its core message tells drivers to stop for a 15‑minute break every two hours or roughly every 200 km, and to avoid night driving when possible.

ABS Director Branko Stamatović warned that fatigue impairs judgement like alcohol, describing early symptoms such as rapid blinking, yawning and the need to stretch. He highlighted the heightened risk for motorcyclists and urged helmet use. Police chief Slaviša Lakićevic noted a reduction in summer‑season accidents compared with the previous year and stressed that proper trip planning and rest can save lives. The campaign will run until mid‑September, featuring bilingual road signs, mobile information teams at rest areas and transit routes, social‑media outreach and prize games to encourage compliance.