A national poll by the Myara agency shows that more than 90% of Bulgarians want tough action to cut road deaths. Some 96% of those surveyed, in every age group, say there should be no tolerance for driving after alcohol or drugs.

More than 90% of respondents want strict checks and penalties. Over 80% back a plan to strip drivers who commit a serious offence of the right to drive in all EU countries.

Respondents also take a hard line on drivers who talk on a mobile phone at the wheel. They want longer training for young drivers.

Opinion is split on the European Parliament's proposal to let people get a licence at 17 and gain experience with an accompanying adult. About a third of respondents lean against it.

Respondents say only tough action can halve road deaths by 2030, which is the European target. The European Parliament has set a goal of zero road deaths by 2050, and Bulgaria adopted it as a strategic goal six years ago.

Greece, Poland and Estonia have had fewer road deaths since they began using the "Vision Zero" approach. There, authorities redesigned roads and imposed strict penalties on offenders.