In a bid to tackle aggressive driving and improve road safety, Romania is set to launch a new platform allowing citizens to report dangerous drivers starting October 27, 2024. The initiative, introduced by the Ministry of Internal Affairs, will enable the public to file reports on aggressive behaviour through the E-SAR (Sesizări abateri rutiere) section on the hub.mai.gov.ro platform (only available in Romanian). The move comes as Romania continues to grapple with the highest road traffic fatality rate in the European Union.

Reporting Aggressive Behaviour

The new reporting mechanism is designed to empower road users to play a direct role in addressing traffic violations. To submit a report, citizens will need to provide identifying information, including their full name, personal identification number, contact details, and a signed declaration attesting to the accuracy of the reported incident. Additionally, reports must include video or audio-visual evidence, along with details such as the date, time, and location of the aggressive driving.

The types of behaviours considered aggressive under the new regulations encompass a range of dangerous actions, including:

• Repeated lane-switching to overtake vehicles.

• Turning a vehicle using the handbrake.

• Excessive wheel spinning when starting from a stationary position.

• Tailgating or following another vehicle too closely.

• Sudden braking without a justified reason, intended to intimidate other drivers.

• Repeated use of horns or lights to force another vehicle to yield.

• Riding a motorcycle or moped on one wheel.

• Reversing to intimidate or obstruct other road users.

• Intentional controlled skidding.

• Revving the engine in a disruptive manner near pedestrians.

Violators may face fines ranging from 660 to 825 lei (approximately £140-£175) and will be subject to a 30-day driving license suspension. These penalties are outlined in Article 100/3/i of Romania’s traffic legislation, O.U.G. 195/2002.

Addressing a Longstanding Road Safety Crisis

Romania’s road safety challenges have long been a cause for concern, with the country consistently recording the highest road traffic fatality rate in the European Union. According to the latest statistics, Romania’s fatality rate is more than double the EU average, reflecting deep-seated issues in driving culture, road infrastructure, and traffic law enforcement.

Aggressive driving behaviors are frequently cited as major contributors to road accidents across the country. Romania’s roads, particularly in urban areas, often see drivers engage in risky maneuvers to navigate congested traffic, while a lack of patience and a competitive driving culture further exacerbate the problem. Such behaviors are not only dangerous but can also lead to fatal outcomes, particularly in high-speed situations or on poorly maintained rural roads.

Efforts to curb Romania’s road fatality rate have been ongoing. In recent years, the government has implemented stricter penalties for traffic violations, launched road safety awareness campaigns, and invested in infrastructure improvements. Yet, these measures have yielded limited success in changing the everyday driving habits of many motorists. The introduction of the E-SAR reporting platform marks a new step toward involving the public in monitoring and deterring aggressive driving, potentially filling enforcement gaps by empowering citizens to report dangerous conduct.

A Cultural and Systemic Challenge

Changing driving behavior in Romania is not merely a matter of enforcement; it also involves addressing cultural attitudes towards road safety. While fines and penalties serve as deterrents, a more profound shift in driver attitudes and compliance with traffic laws is needed. The platform’s success will largely depend on public participation and the authorities’ responsiveness to the reported incidents.

The introduction of the E-SAR platform comes at a crucial time, as the Romanian government seeks to align its road safety standards with broader EU targets. The European Union has set an ambitious goal to halve the number of road deaths by 2030, with Romania facing a particularly steep challenge given its current statistics. The new platform aims to not only penalise offenders but also foster a culture of accountability and safer driving practices.

A Brighter Future?

As the E-SAR reporting system goes live, it will be closely watched as a potential model for other EU countries facing similar road safety challenges. The initiative could serve as a catalyst for broader reforms in Romania, addressing not just the symptoms of aggressive driving but also the underlying cultural and infrastructural issues contributing to the country’s high fatality rate.

Romania’s road safety problems are multifaceted, and while the new reporting platform is a promising tool, it represents just one part of a comprehensive strategy needed to make lasting improvements. With public engagement and consistent enforcement, the hope is that Romania can turn the tide on its road safety crisis, ultimately saving lives and setting a new standard for traffic management in the region.