Drunk driver crashes Mercedes in Mannheim after losing control at high speed
A 52-year-old man crashed his Mercedes in Mannheim early on Wednesday morning after driving under the influence. The accident occurred at the intersection of Xaver-Fuhr-Straße and Bösfeld Weg, causing significant damage and minor injuries to the driver. Authorities have since launched an investigation into dangerous driving.
The driver was travelling from Ludwigshafener Straße along Xaver-Fuhr-Straße when he lost control of his vehicle. Slippery road conditions and reckless driving contributed to the crash, which saw the car plough through bollards, metal fences, and tram tracks before ending up in a ditch. The Mercedes was left undriveable, with estimated damages exceeding €50,000.
Police confirmed the man's blood alcohol concentration was nearly 0.9 per mille at the time of the incident. His driver's licence was immediately confiscated, and he is now banned from operating any motor vehicle until the public prosecutor's office makes a final decision.
Germany enforces strict alcohol limits for drivers and cyclists, with penalties including fines, penalty points, and licence suspension for those who exceed them. Drinking before driving not only endangers the driver but also puts others at risk by impairing judgement and reaction times.
No similar accidents involving intoxicated drivers have been reported in Mannheim over the past three years, according to available records.
The investigation into dangerous driving remains ongoing. The driver faces potential legal consequences, while the accident serves as a reminder of the risks associated with alcohol and road safety. The total cost of the damage and recovery operations has yet to be finalised.
