Lunar New Year Holidays: Fewer Traffic Accidents but More Casualties... The Day Before the Holidays is the Most Dangerous
During the Lunar New Year holidays, there are fewer traffic accidents compared to usual, but the number of casualties is higher, particularly on the day before the holidays.
Despite a reduction in the average daily traffic accidents during the Lunar New Year holidays over the past five years, the number of casualties has actually increased. Official data from the Ministry of the Interior and Safety indicates that an average of 340 accidents occurred daily during the holidays, compared to a typical 550 accidents. However, the number of casualties per 100 accidents rose from 145 to 172, which has been attributed to the increase in family trips during the holidays.
The day before the holidays is especially hazardous, with an average of 682 accidents reported, approximately 1.2 times the normal occurrence. The majority, 43.5%, of these accidents took place between 2 PM and 8 PM, highlighting peak hours for road safety concerns. Authorities recommend drivers reduce their speeds on bridges, overpasses, tunnels, and shaded areas where road icing is likely to occur, regardless of favorable weather conditions.
Moreover, with drier weather contributing to a heightened risk of wildfires across the country, caution is urged for those visiting burial sites or hiking. As of early February, 85 cases of wildfires have been reported this year, indicating a 1.7-fold increase compared to the same period last year. The Ministry also notes that previous statistics show a significant number of wildfires result from human error, emphasizing the need for increased vigilance and appropriate reporting channels to the relevant authorities in case of wildfire detection.