Greece reduced the number of fatal road accidents by 22% last year, marking significant progress in its efforts to improve road safety and move closer to the European Parliament's ambitious "Vision Zero" strategy, which aims to eliminate road deaths across the European Union by 2050 and cut fatalities by half by 2030.
Although Greece still ranks among the ten EU countries with the highest road death rates, authorities have intensified efforts in recent years through stricter traffic laws, major investments in road infrastructure, and public awareness campaigns.
A key part of the strategy has been expanding the country's modern highway network and redesigning roads to meet higher safety standards. Greek drivers acknowledge that tougher enforcement has also played a role.
"Penalties for drivers who break the rules are becoming more severe, which is very good. It's a positive measure, although there is still room for improvement in infrastructure," one local driver said.
Visitors also recognize the difference between newer and older roads. A German tourist noted that while the highway from the border to Thessaloniki still needs improvement, the route to Athens is in much better condition.
