MARGAO: South Goa police have registered 30,209 cases for violations of the Motor Vehicles Act from January to July 21, 2024. Despite this, the number of accidents has not yet decreased.
Reported violations include over-speeding, driving without a license or permit, no entry, drunk driving, distractions such as mobile phone use, avoiding safety gear like seat belts and helmets, non-adherence to lane discipline, and improper overtaking.
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Despite numerous challans, there were 1,387 accidents in the State in the first six months of 2024, resulting in 165 deaths. In South Goa, the highest number of accidents occurred in Verna (110), Maina-Curtorim (92), Ponda (77), Cuncolim (63), Fatorda (58), Margao (54), Colva (45), Canacona (42), Mardol (33), Quepem (31), Vasco (31), Curchorem (24), Collem (18), Sanguem (11), and Mormugao (10).
Of these, the fatalities were most significant in Ponda (16), Cuncolim and Maina-Curtorim (10 each), and Verna and Fatorda (8 each). Other locations with notable fatal accidents include Margao and Collem (5 each), and Canacona and Vasco (4 each).
A senior police officer noted that while drivers are generally aware of the Motor Vehicles Act rules and safety measures, accidents often result from motorist negligence. He highlighted issues such as elderly pedestrians being knocked down, the dangers of over-speeding, and the impact of driving under the influence. Distractions, particularly mobile phone use while driving, and the failure to wear safety gear like seat belts and helmets, are significant contributors to accidents. Studies show that seat belts and helmets significantly reduce injuries in accidents.
Efforts are being made by the traffic cell to educate drivers and riders on road safety to help reduce accidents.
