The number of pedestrian fatalities in Bulgaria has more than doubled.

According to official statistics from Bulgaria’s Ministry of Interior, between 1 January and 18 February 2026, a total of 197 road traffic collisions involving pedestrians were recorded nationwide. These incidents resulted in 14 fatalities and 191 injuries. By comparison, during the same period in 2025, 216 pedestrian-related crashes were registered. However, these resulted in significantly fewer fatalities — six deaths — while 220 pedestrians were injured. This represents an increase of over 100% in pedestrian deaths year-on-year, despite fewer overall incidents.

Drivers

Analysis of the fatal crashes reveals that driver behaviour is the leading cause behind the increase in pedestrian fatalities. Of the 14 pedestrians who lost their lives, 12 were struck due to driver fault, while only two crashes were attributed to incorrect behaviour by pedestrians. These findings reinforce a well-documented pattern across Europe: vulnerable road users, particularly pedestrians, continue to bear the greatest risk in urban traffic environments, especially where speed management and driver attention are insufficient.

Responsibility

Bulgaria’s State Agency for Road Safety (DABDP) has issued a strong appeal to all road users, particularly drivers, to exercise increased caution and responsibility. Drivers are urged to strictly adhere to traffic regulations and to always adjust their speed according to the environment — especially in built-up areas, near pedestrian crossings, schools, and public transport stops. Road safety is a shared responsibility. Respect, anticipation, and tolerance on the road can prevent tragedies that have lifelong consequences for families and communities, the Agency emphasized. Urban areas, where pedestrian traffic is dense and interactions with vehicles are frequent, require heightened awareness from drivers. Failure to anticipate pedestrian crossings, distractions behind the wheel, and lack of compliance with right-of-way rules are key risk factors that must be addressed, the Agency added.

Risks

ROADPOL continues to emphasise that protecting vulnerable road users is a cornerstone of effective traffic policing. Excessive or inappropriate speed remains one of the most significant contributors to both the occurrence and severity of collisions involving pedestrians. Even small increases in speed dramatically raise the likelihood of fatal outcomes in the event of a crash. The alarming increase in pedestrian fatalities underlines the need for sustained enforcement operations, targeted awareness campaigns, and the consistent application of safe system principles. Reducing speed, improving driver behaviour, and fostering a culture of mutual respect are essential steps towards preventing further loss of life on European roads.