However, street crime, which occasionally involves violence, has increased especially at night near major hotels and restaurants and on public transportation. Theft of passports, currency and credit cards is a frequent problem, especially in youth hostels, at train stations, and when riding public transportation. The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to local police and to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. The number of burglaries has risen substantially, and vehicle thefts, particularly of high value automobiles, is a major problem. There is zero tolerance for driving under the influence of alcohol.
Police often conduct routine road checks where breath analyzers are administered.
The condition of Hungarian highways is, in general, relatively good. However, roads in the provinces are narrow, badly lit, and in poor repair in some places. They are often used by pedestrians, agricultural machines, and animals, requiring increased caution from drivers. The acceptance of traveler's checks and credit cards is not universal. The presence of ATM's is increasing in Budapest only.