Slight drop in number of traffic accidents

The number of reported traffic accidents in the second quarter of the year was 4,036, 39 fewer than in the same period last year, the National Statistics Office said yesterday.

While the number of accidents registered in the Northern Harbour district fell by 57 cases, a significant 13 per cent rise was recorded in those that occurred in the Northern district, up by 75 cases.

A total of 177 drivers were injured in traffic accidents, 139 suffering slight injuries and 36 grievous. Two drivers died, both male.

Meanwhile, 75 passengers and 42 pedestrians suffered slight injuries while 10 passengers and 17 pedestrians were seriously hurt. There were no fatalities among passengers or pedestrians.

St Paul's Bay has the highest rate of traffic accidents, with 246 cases or six per cent. Qormi and Birkirkara follow, with 227 and 221 respectively.

Nearly 59 per cent of traffic casualties were reported in the weekends, between Friday and Sunday.