Holiday road accidents rise to 457 – DOH

MANILA, Philippines — Road traffic accidents this holiday season increased to 457 with five fatalities, according to the Department of Health.

The DOH tally was recorded from Dec. 22 to 30.

Of the number of road crashes, 39 were registered yesterday.

The DOH said the number is 38 percent higher than the road accidents posted during the same period last year.

Three of the five fatalities used motorcycles, according to the department.

DOH data also showed that 76 of the victims were drunk, 393 did not use safety accessories such as helmet and 322 used motorcycles.

The DOH reminded motorists not to drive when tired or drunk as it will cause them to lose control of faculties or behavior.

“Always wear a helmet for those driving motorcycles and seatbelt for those driving cars, jeeps and similar types of vehicles,” the DOH said.

Monitoring of road traffic accidents by the DOH is being done under its “BiyaHealthy” program, which is part of the department’s promotion of a safe Christmas celebration.

The DOH also encouraged the public to “eat healthy food and exercise” during the holidays.