30.01.2025 - "These numbers are alarmingly high. Just think about how many impaired drivers you've encountered on the roads! Every day, 30 people are reported for this offense – and that’s just among those who get caught."
This is what Roger Ytre-Hauge, motor expert at Frende Insurance, says about the findings of a survey conducted by Norstat for the insurance company. The survey reveals that 19 percent of men admitted to driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Among female drivers, 8 percent reported the same behavior.
"There are already enough risks on the road that you can't control. Impaired drivers should not be one of them. It is extremely dangerous and completely unacceptable, whether you’ve done it once or multiple times," says Ytre-Hauge.
Regions with the highest rates of impaired driving
The survey shows where the highest percentage of people admitted to driving under the influence at least once:
Troms – 29 percent
Møre og Romsdal – 21 percent
Nordland – 19 percent
Rogaland – 18 percent
Akershus – 17 percent
Innlandet – 16 percent
Vestfold – 15 percent
Agder – 15 percent
Finnmark – 14 percent
Oslo – 13 percent
Østfold – 12 percent
Vestland – 9 percent
Trøndelag – 9 percent
Buskerud – 6 percent
Telemark – 6 percent
Source: Frende Insurance survey
High number of unreported cases
Figures from the police show that more than 30 people are reported for impaired driving in Norway every day. In 2023, the total number of reports was 11,651.
"That number is shockingly high. And just think about all those who never get caught. There are many unreported cases, which is also reflected in our survey results," says Roger Ytre-Hauge.
Last year, 90 people lost their lives on Norwegian roads, down from 118 in 2023.
"Any reduction in fatalities is good news, but those 90 deaths are still 90 tragedies that could have been prevented," says the Frende expert.
Impaired drivers are the biggest fear on the roads
The Frende survey found that 74 percent of respondents say impaired drivers are what they fear most on the road.
"I completely understand that, and I feel the same way. When you drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, you lose focus, and staying alert is one of the most important things behind the wheel. Driving is about reading traffic and adjusting accordingly," says Roger Ytre-Hauge.
"When you are impaired, your reflexes are dulled, making it extremely dangerous for both yourself and others. Everyone should think about this before considering getting behind the wheel. Whether it's today’s intoxication or a hangover affecting you, it’s simply not worth the risk," he says.
He also emphasizes that insurance does not cover accidents if the driver was impaired.
"If you hit someone or something, the financial consequences can be massive. And you will have to pay for it yourself," says Roger Ytre-Hauge.
FACTS: Norway’s blood alcohol limits and penalties
The legal blood alcohol limit in Norway is 0.2‰.
0.2-0.5‰: Usually results in a fine, but a temporary license suspension is possible.
0.5-0.8‰: Results in a fine and loss of license for 12-18 months.
If an accident occurs, the license suspension may be extended, especially for higher blood alcohol levels.
Fines are determined based on the offender’s income.
What to do if you suspect someone is driving under the influence
If you know someone who is considering driving impaired, stop them!
If they refuse to stop, call the police at 02800.
If you see erratic or dangerous driving, call the police at 02800.
Source: Frende Forsikring