Austrian driver loses license after painkiller-fueled crash in Germany
A 55-year-old Austrian driver was stopped by police at the Allgäu Gate East service area late on Saturday night. Officers found him heavily under the influence of strong painkillers, showing clear signs of impairment behind the wheel.
The man had driven from Innsbruck to the service area in his impaired state. His car displayed fresh damage from a recent collision, raising further concerns. When questioned, he appeared severely disoriented, sweating excessively and struggling to speak coherently.
Police immediately banned him from continuing his journey. Criminal proceedings for driving under the influence were launched against him. Authorities confirmed he now faces a substantial fine and the loss of his German driving license.
No official records of similar incidents involving drivers impaired by strong painkillers on German autobahns have been documented in the past year, between February 2025 and February 2026.
The case highlights the risks of operating a vehicle while under the influence of prescription medication. The driver's license revocation and financial penalty will take effect following legal proceedings. Authorities have not reported comparable cases in recent months.
