The data for the month of February is still provisional, explained the PSP in a statement, but shows a significant increase in speeding. A further 1,592 drivers were recorded speeding, figures that “deserve special attention in the totality of traffic violations recorded and constitute one of the main factors in traffic accidents”.

Speeding violations represent 18% of total violations (23,146). On average, around 827 infractions were recorded per day, an increase of around 85% when compared to February last year.

Looking at last month's numbers, the PSP pointed out another significant increase, which is related to cell phone use. 580 infractions were recorded - 300 more than in the same period in 2024. Every day, more than 20 people were caught using their cell phones while driving.

Arrests made by the PSP also increased in February, when compared to the same month last year - in February 2025, 789 people were arrested and in February 2024, 357 were arrested, which represents an increase of more than double.

The majority of arrests (464) were for drunk driving and 325 were for driving without a license. In relation to driving under the influence of alcohol, the PSP carried out 19,493 alcohol tests, which resulted in 461 fines.

Accidents down

Contrary to the upward trend related to misdemeanours, the number of road accidents decreased compared to last year. In February 2024, 4,225 accidents were recorded and last month 4,093 were recorded. The number of seriously injured increased slightly - from 47 to 54 - and the number of dead also increased - from seven to eight.

The PSP also clarified that motorcycle accidents “have been receiving the attention” of the police, as these drivers “end up suffering more serious injuries”. Of the eight deaths recorded, three victims were motorcycle drivers, three were car drivers and two were pedestrians who died after being run over.

Even though the data is provisional, the PSP considered that it is already possible to state that “the human factor is recognized as the most relevant condition for the occurrence of most accidents, whether due to violation and/or disrespect for traffic rules and signs, or in the face of an unexpected event”.

Taking into account the current rainy season, the PSP warned drivers not to adopt behaviours that could reduce their driving ability and gave some advice: do not drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, maintain a safe distance, do not drive excessively, or use a cell phone while driving.