The 8th conference "Road Traffic Safety - Digitalization of the Transport System and New EU Rules for Drivers" delivered clear messages: Croatia is facing extensive legislative changes, stronger digitalization of the transport system, and the introduction of new technologies in traffic monitoring. This year's conference directly concerns as many as 2.3 million drivers in the country, with an emphasis on safety, modernization, and alignment with European regulations.
Fewer accidents, but more fatalities
Although the total number of traffic accidents decreased last year, the rise in the number of fatalities on the roads is concerning. The Chief Director of Police, reviewing traffic safety trends in 2025, stated that 261 people died on Croatian roads, marking the third year after the COVID-19 pandemic with the lowest number of fatalities. However, this figure still calls for caution and additional measures. Croatia's goals remain clear – fewer casualties, safer roads, and a more efficient transport system. However, the challenges are growing. Croatia is seeing an increase in traffic and the number of drivers. Last year, more than five million additional vehicles were recorded on all highways compared to the previous year, while 105,000 new vehicles were registered, representing a four percent increase. "Positive trends will not happen on their own," it was emphasized at the conference. Changing driver habits and new participants in traffic, often insufficiently educated, are placing additional strain on the system.
Lower driving age and stricter penalties
Particular attention was drawn to the possibility of lowering the minimum age for obtaining a driver's license to 17, with mandatory supervision by an experienced driver. This raises the question of whether young people at that age are ready for the challenges of independent participation in traffic, especially under increased traffic conditions. At the same time, Croatia is working on amendments to the Road Traffic Safety Act to address new risky behaviors and phenomena that lead to the most severe consequences. It was emphasized that sanctions must be timely, especially for the most serious offenses. The goal is not to "beautify statistics," but to genuinely reduce casualties. As an example of a modern approach to traffic monitoring, the use of drones operated by specially trained police officers was highlighted, further improving traffic control.
European context: 20,000 fatalities
The issue of traffic safety goes beyond national borders. According to Antonio Avenoso from the European Transport Safety Council, around 20,000 people died on European roads last year. In some member states, such as Poland and Lithuania, a reduction in serious traffic accidents of more than 30 percent has been recorded. However, significant differences between member states remain, as well as inconsistent criteria for data recording. Avenoso proposed the establishment of a dedicated EU road safety agency to better coordinate member states' efforts and accelerate the implementation of joint measures.
Mobile vehicle registration and digital documents
One of the key developments concerns amendments to the EU directive on vehicle documents, which foresee the introduction of a mobile vehicle registration certificate. This electronic document would be stored on a smartphone, enabling simpler and more efficient vehicle monitoring, while issuing a physical document would remain an option. Digitalization was highlighted as one of the main priorities of the Croatian Government. Investments in digital processes, road infrastructure, and artificial intelligence systems are already significant, but it was emphasized that technology cannot replace the foundation – traffic education from an early age.
AKD presents EADR project
AKD representative Laura Biondíc presented the EADR project, which will run until July 2026. The project includes a new system for monitoring the transport of dangerous goods.
Digitalization as the foundation of the future
The conclusion of the conference is clear: road safety does not depend solely on penalties and enforcement, but on a combination of legislative changes, technological progress and systematic education. Digitalization of the transport system represents the foundation of long-term development, but without responsible behaviour of all road users and continuous investment in education, the desired goals will remain out of reach.
