Follow us on Facebook

Walaw

Society

Urban Roadways Witness Tragic Toll: 23 Lives Lost, 2,726 Injured in a Week's Time

Wednesday 05 June 2024 - 10:10

Zoom

A sobering report released by the Directorate General of National Security (DGSN) underscores the grim reality of road accidents in urban areas. Within the span of a single week, from May 27th to June 2nd, a staggering 1,960 traffic collisions occurred within city limits. These collisions resulted in 23 fatalities and 2,726 injuries, of which 97 were classified as severe.

The DGSN's analysis sheds light on the primary causes behind these tragic incidents. Driver inattention, failure to yield right of way, excessive speed, disregard for safe following distances, and lack of vehicle control emerged as the leading culprits. Other contributing factors included pedestrian negligence, disregarding stop signs, improper signaling during lane changes, unauthorized direction changes, running red lights, driving under the influence, faulty overtaking maneuvers, driving on the wrong side of the road, and traveling in the opposite direction of traffic flow.

In an effort to combat these alarming statistics, security services have intensified their efforts to enforce traffic laws and regulations. During the same period, a total of 41,104 traffic violations were recorded, leading to the issuance of 7,077 reports submitted to the public prosecutor's office. Additionally, 34,027 on-the-spot fines were collected, amounting to a staggering 7,456,950 dirhams in revenue for the authorities.

The DGSN's crackdown on traffic offenses extended further, with 3,949 vehicles impounded in municipal pounds, 7,077 documents seized, and 193 vehicles deemed unfit for road use and removed from circulation.

As Morocco grapples with the challenge of enhancing road safety, particularly in urban settings, this report serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for collective action. Addressing driver behavior, infrastructure improvements, and stringent enforcement measures will be crucial in reducing the harrowing toll of traffic accidents and ensuring the safety of all road users.