Zambia records 166 road traffic accidents on New Year day, 20 confirmed dead (See comparative figures)

A total of 166 road traffic accidents were recorded nationwide on New Year’s Day, marking a significant decrease from the 262 incidents reported during the same period in 2024.

Police spokesperson, Rae Hamoonga, revealed that Lusaka Province recorded the highest number of accidents at 60, followed by Copperbelt with 38, and Central Province with 14.

Fifteen fatal accidents were recorded, resulting in 20 fatalities, compared to 16 fatal accidents with 16 deaths in 2024.

This reflected a slight decrease in fatal accidents but a rise in fatalities by four.

“Serious accidents dropped to 27, with 52 people seriously injured, compared to 40 accidents and 62 injuries in 2024,” Hamoonga said.

He added that slight accidents totaled 38, with 51 individuals sustaining minor injuries, compared to 39 accidents and 56 injuries last year.

Damage-only accidents saw the most significant reduction, with 86 incidents reported, compared to 167 in 2024.

Hamoonga attributed most accidents to human error, including excessive speed (48 accidents), failure to keep nearside (26 accidents), and misjudging clearance distance (25 accidents).

Other causes included driver fatigue, inattention, and non-compliance with traffic regulations.

In 2024, 1,340 traffic offences were recorded, generating K631,150 in fines.

This year, 819 offences were reported, resulting in K577,900 collected—a reduction of 521 offences and K53,250 in fines.

Hamoonga credited the decline in accidents and offences to police interventions, such as routine patrols in high-risk areas, road safety awareness campaigns across provinces, and enhanced stakeholder collaboration.

“While the reduction in road traffic accidents is commendable, the Zambia Police Service remains deeply concerned about the fatalities and injuries recorded,” Hamoonga said.

He urged road users to prioritize safety, adhere to speed limits, and remain vigilant to further reduce accidents on Zambia’s roads.

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