Traffic accidents are up 29% in the Dominican Republic during the first three months of 2024, compared to the same period in 2023. According to statistics from the Ground Transport Agency (Digesett), an average of five people have died every day in traffic accidents.
The grim reality is that motorcycles are involved in 90% of fatal traffic accidents in the Dominican Republic. This year alone, there have been nearly 1,000 fatal collisions, with 578 occurring during the first three months, representing a 29% increase from 2023. In January, there were 192 fatalities, while February and March saw 179 and 207 deaths, respectively.
Most fatal accidents occur in urban areas, involving collisions, run-overs, or skids.
During the weekly trending topic panel held by the Esta Noche con Mariasela TV program, there was a call for an end to judges ruling in favor of law-breaking motorcyclists. There was also a call for city governments to act and require that builders install adequate protections to the deep excavations in city areas where dozens of high rises are going up. The panelists called for the political will for the passing of the rulings that would make Intrant Traffic and Transit Law 63-17 applicable. Moreso, the call is for the government to act and implement unpopular measures that are key to saving lives.
Last Monday, 24 June 2024, two people died and two others were injured when a vehicle plunged into an excavation on Av. Roberto Pastoriza in the Buen Pastor sector of Evaristo Morales neighborhood in the National District.
Diario Libre reports in the National District there are more than 60 deep excavations open that present danger to local commuters. Journalist Adalberto de la Rosa explains that of all the constructions visited, only two had adequate New Jersey-type protections, most just use aluzinc panels.
In 2022, the Dominican Republic held the top spot in the world for traffic accident fatality rates, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The Dominican Republic holds the first position with 64.6 deaths per year per 100,000 inhabitants. A staggering 87% of these victims are males.
Follow the story in Spanish:
Listin Diario
Esta Noche con Mariasela
Diario Libre
27 June 2024