Major thoroughfares have turned into a massive parking lot due to the influx of holiday shoppers, balikbayans and daily commuters during the Christmas season. Photographs by John Carlo Magallon for the Daily Tribune
LATEST

6 dead in road accidents during holiday season

Gabriela Baron

Six persons have died due to road accidents since 22 December, the Department of Health (DOH) reported Tuesday.

Of those who perished, four died in motorcycle-related accidents.

On Tuesday, the DOH logged 39 new cases of traffic-related accidents, bringing the total to 496, which is 33 percent higher compared to the same period last year.

Of the cases, 427 did not use safety accessories, while 356 were motorcycle-related.

"Ugalling magsuot ng helmet para sa mga nagmomotorsiklo at seatbelt para sa mga nagmamaneho at mga pasahero ng sasakyan" (Make sure to use a helmet for those using motorcycles, and wear a seatbelt for those driving cars as well as their passengers), the DOH said.

Meanwhile, 83 of the victims were under the influence of alcohol.

The DOH continued to warn the public against drinking and driving.

"Iwasan ang pagmamaneho kung ikaw ay pagod o nakainom ng alak, dahil maaaring maapektuhan ang iyong koordinasyon, konsentrasyon, at mabilis na pagresponde sa mga biglaang sitwasyon sa kalsada" (Avoid driving if you are tired or have consumed alcohol, as your coordination, concentration, and quick response to sudden situations on the road may be affected), the DOH reminded.