This is how the year 2023 closed, marked by 1,145 lives lost in traffic accidents. Despite a 2% rise in long-distance travel, the fatality rate on the roads stayed nearly flat, showing only three fewer deaths than the previous year. The overall pattern suggests that more miles traveled did not translate into a proportionate increase in deaths, underscoring ongoing safety challenges and the continuing need for vigilance on all routes.
These figures were presented by Minister of Internal Affairs Fernando Grande-Marlaska at a press briefing, summarizing provisional traffic accident data for the year that has just concluded. The balance covers victims recorded within 24 hours of the incidents, providing a snapshot of the initial impact and the severity of the crashes that occurred across the year.
In total, 1,048 fatal accidents were registered, resulting in 1,145 fatalities and leaving 4,495 people seriously injured. Road segments that end in a loss of life continue to cluster around certain patterns, with single-vehicle run-off crashes repeatedly contributing the largest share of fatalities at 486 deaths, accounting for 42% of all fatalities. These numbers highlight persistent risk factors and the ongoing focus needed for improved road design, enforcement, and public awareness campaigns aimed at reducing deadly outcomes on the roads.