DOH: Holiday road accidents rise to 496

Road accident | INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — The number of road accidents from December 22 to 31 has reached 496, the Department of Health (DOH) reported on Tuesday.

The figure was 33 percent higher compared to the same period in 2023, the DOH said.

The agency also reported that 356 were motorcycle accidents, 427 cases involved individuals who did not use safety accessories while driving, and 83 cases involved individuals who were reportedly drunk.

READ: DOH records 142 firecracker-related injuries days before New Year

Moreover, the DOH reported that six people died — four of them due to motorcycle accidents.

To lessen these accidents, the DOH again reminded motorists to do the following:

• Avoid driving when tired or drunk because it can affect coordination, concentration, and quick response to road situations
• Exercise wearing helmets for motorcycles and seat belts for cars
• Follow the speed limit set and road signs to ensure safe travel and avoid accidents
• Ensure having seven to eight hours of sleep before traveling to stay alert while driving
• Avoid using phones and other distractions when driving
• Immediately call 911 or 1555 DOH hotlines in case of emergency