2024 statistics: less fatalities, serious injuries and offences among young drivers6/2/2025|Press releasesAccident statistics for 2024 show a decline in fatalities, injuries and offences among young drivers. The possibility to drive from the age of 17 with a mentor (L17) has also contributed to improving the behaviour of young drivers on the roads. "We recorded the lowest number of seriously injured persons and pedestrians killed in history. The number of accidents caused by alcohol while driving has also fallen significantly. Last year, up to 20% of new drivers from the age of 17 took up the opportunity to drive under the supervision of a mentor," says transport minister Martin Kupka. In 2024, the number of fatalities decreased by 17 cases compared to the previous period to a total of 438 fatalities. The number of drivers who were not wearing a seat belt also fell by 44%, with a fifth fewer offences committed by drivers who were holding their phone. The number of offences committed by drivers who were driving under the influence of alcohol or other addictive substances also fell by 10%. There was also a 10% reduction in speeding. People are using the L17 programme with a mentor The L17 programme, which allows people to drive from the age of 17 under the supervision of a mentor, has gained popularity. Up to 20% of new drivers have taken up this possibility. An analysis of offences showed that young L17 drivers were more responsible, committing only 8.4% of offences compared to drivers aged 18 and over. "L17 shows that educating for responsibility and promoting family mentoring makes sense. We will continue to expand this programme and support the training of not only young drivers but also their mentors," says Tomáš Neřold, Head of the BESIP Department. The Ministry of Transport and BESIP focused on awareness and education in 2024. Special campaigns such as "Buddies in the Car" or "Driving School Zero Hour" have been well received, reaching thousands of young people. The Zero Hour programme has been held in more than 100 secondary schools and continues this year. For more information, please visit www.besip.cz and www.autoskolaL17.cz.