On Monday, September 14, 2026, the Bratislava Region Police conducted a large-scale traffic enforcement operation. They identified 154 traffic violations. The operation lasted from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., and its goal was to identify the most common causes of accidents leading to injuries and fatalities. Forty-six police officers were involved in the operation, administering 490 breathalyzer tests, including to motorcycle riders, cyclists, and even an electric scooter rider.
What did the police check reveal?
Among the violations recorded, the most common were speeding (50 cases), other traffic violations (33 cases), vehicles in poor technical condition (17 cases), and using cell phones while driving (16 cases). Police also documented instances of improper maneuvering, passing, and failure to wear seat belts.
Particularly telling was the case of one driver who not only exceeded the speed limit and used his phone but also had 40 violations on his driver’s record over the past five years. His driver’s license was confiscated on the spot. Another driver was detained for obstructing the execution of an official order. In total, four driver’s licenses and eight vehicle registration certificates were confiscated during the checks. In one case, a driver was found to be driving under the influence of alcohol (up to one per mille), and another driver tested positive for drugs.
New Rules and Tighter Controls: What Has Changed Since 2026?
This inspection is part of a general trend toward stricter enforcement on Slovakia’s roads. This is linked to updates to traffic regulations that took effect in May and September 2026. The Slovak government aims to reduce the number of traffic accidents and improve safety for all road users.
Key changes include:
- Stricter penalties for speeding. Fines have become stricter, and the thresholds for imposing them have been lowered. For example, exceeding the speed limit by 31 km/h in a built-up area or by 41 km/h outside of one can result in a fine ranging from 250 to 800 euros. For significant speeding violations (more than 50 km/h in a city or 60 km/h outside a city), fines have increased to 500–1,000 euros when issued on the spot or 800–1,300 euros through administrative proceedings.
- Fines for using electronic devices while driving. Starting September 1, 2026, a fixed fine of 249 euros will be imposed for using cell phones, smartwatches, and other similar devices while operating a vehicle. This new regulation operates on the principle of “objective liability,” meaning the fine is issued to the vehicle owner even if someone else was driving at the time and the violation was captured by a camera.
- Program for “repeat offenders.” Drivers who commit three serious violations within a year will be required to attend sessions with a traffic psychologist and undergo additional training. A fourth violation will result in a medical and psychological evaluation.
- Pedestrian rights. Drivers are now required to stop not only when a pedestrian is already on a crosswalk but also when the pedestrian is clearly preparing to step onto it. At the same time, pedestrians are prohibited from suddenly stepping into the roadway and from using a cell phone while crossing the street.
- Electric scooters. A new category, “small electric vehicles,” has been introduced. They are prohibited from riding on sidewalks unless permitted by traffic signs, and their speed must not exceed 25 km/h.
Tips for Ukrainian Drivers in Slovakia
Given the stricter enforcement and new rules, Ukrainian drivers in Slovakia should be especially careful. Check the current traffic rules, especially regarding speed limits and the use of mobile devices. Keep in mind that the police have broader powers to conduct checks, and more cameras are being installed on the roads.
If you’re planning a trip or looking for information about public transportation, visit our transportation page.
The Bratislava Region Police emphasize that such checks will continue, so obeying traffic rules is key to your safety and to avoiding hefty fines.
Source: Police in Bratislava uncovered over 150 violations during a major traffic check
