Human error cause of most Baguio accidents

BAGUIO CITY — The Baguio City Police Office (BCPO) has revealed that human error is the leading cause of traffic accidents in the city, accounting for approximately 95 percent of incidents recorded over the past five months.

In response to the alarming trend, local authorities are calling for strategic interventions aimed at reducing the number of accidents and improving road safety.

BCPO Strategic Management Team Chief, Police Col. Judy Jasmin Palicos, emphasized that human error does not solely refer to driver mistakes but also includes factors such as road conditions, infrastructure, and environmental influences that affect driving performance.

“We need a multi-faceted approach to addressing these incidents, one that involves the active participation of everyone in the community,” said Palicos. “By doing so, we can work toward a significant reduction in traffic accidents.”

BCPO data from 1 January to 30 May this year reveals that there were 375 recorded traffic accidents, a notable increase compared to 322 incidents during the same period last year. Of these accidents, 307 resulted in property damage, 60 caused physical injuries, and eight were fatal. Most incidents involved motor vehicles. Of the recorded 356 cases, motorcycles were involved in only 19 accidents.

The majority of accidents, 166, occurred within the central business district area, though incidents were reported in various parts of the city.

As part of its efforts to curb the rising number of accidents, the BCPO has rolled out its Operation Plan DRIVE or Discipline, Respect, Infrastructure, Vigilance and Education aiming to educate motorists and the public on road safety responsibilities.

Palicos appealed to the public to support the initiative and become proactive agents of change to ensure safer roads, thereby helping to prevent accidents, injuries, and loss of life.

“We all share the responsibility of keeping our streets safe,” she said. “Together, we can make a difference.”