New Ministry of Interior methodology: Drones to film serious accidents

New standards for investigating serious traffic accidents

Minister of Interior Ivan Demerdzhiev announced that a new methodology for investigating serious road traffic accidents is being developed. It provides for detailed filming of the accident scene, including the use of drones, to document the condition of the road surface and the vehicles.

"Our ambition is for this methodology to be approved and implemented soon, which will provide detailed evidentiary material for future expert assessments," Demerdzhiev emphasized.

Control over heavy goods vehicles

Key highlights of the Minister's statement:

• Problem with weigh-in-motion scales: It was pointed out that a large part of the scales provided for in the toll system have not been implemented or are not functional.
• Overloading and safety: Demerdzhiev explained that overloaded trucks have a longer braking distance and reduced stability, which often leads to accidents.
• Institutional measures: An interdepartmental working group has been established under the leadership of the Ministry of Transport to improve the capacity of the Road Transport Administration (DAI).

Investigative authorities must check whether a truck was overloaded in every serious accident with casualties, and this information is analyzed through the electronic toll collection system.