The Center for Emergency Operations (COE) released on 1 January 2025 the report on the casualties and incidents that occurred over the New Year’s Eve celebrations. The agency reported 82 traffic accidents, resulting in nine fatalities and 99 injuries.
A significant portion of these accidents involved motorcycles, with 68 of the total incidents involving two-wheeled vehicles. Seven of the fatalities occurred outside of designated safety zones.
Beyond traffic incidents, the COE also responded to a surge in alcohol-related emergencies. First responders attended to 145 cases of alcohol poisoning, including 29 minors between the ages of 12 and 17. Additionally, 19 cases of food poisoning were reported. The provinces of Puerto Plata, La Altagracia, Peravia, San Cristóbal, the National District, Santo Domingo, and San Pedro de Macorís saw the highest number of incidents.
To address the concerning rise in traffic accidents, the General Traffic Safety and Ground Transport Agency (Digesett) conducted extensive traffic enforcement operations. Over 11,500 drivers were cited for various violations, including:
• 3,162 for not wearing helmets
• 790 for running red lights
• 593 for not wearing seatbelts
• 359 for speeding
• 292 for using mobile phones while driving
• 151 for reckless driving
Furthermore, authorities impounded 136 heavy vehicles operating without permits, 599 motorcycles, and 14 cylindrical vehicles carrying passengers in their cargo areas.
The Digesett conducted two alcohol testing operations, one on the 6 de Noviembre highway and another at the La Romana toll plaza, screening 1,044 drivers. Of these, 58 tested positive for alcohol.
The National Institute of Transit and Land Transport (Intrant) reported having carried out 5,522 technical and visual inspections of public transportation vehicles as part of the safety operation.
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Listin Diario
2 January 2025