Luanda: Over 100 people lost their lives and 763 were injured in traffic accidents in Angola's southern Huila province during the first half of this year, as reported by local authorities on Monday.
According to Angola Press News Agency, the Traffic and Road Safety Unit (UTSER) documented 628 traffic incidents over this period, as stated by unit commander Superintendent Ant³nio Franco. The figures show a slight decline compared to the same timeframe last year, with two fewer deaths, 17 fewer accidents, and 67 fewer injuries.
Excessive speed was identified as the primary cause of these crashes, responsible for 279 incidents. This was followed by the failure to yield the right-of-way, which accounted for 89 cases, and driver inattention, responsible for 65 incidents, Franco informed the state news agency ANGOP.
Vehicle mechanical failures were also highlighted as a significant factor, with 67 accidents attributed to the poor technical condition of vehicles. This was an increase of nine cases from the previous year. Franco emphasized that many vehicles continue to operate without adequate mechanical conditions, posing risks to the occupants and other road users.
Frequent mechanical issues included failures in braking, steering, and lighting systems, along with severe tire wear. In response, police conducted 256 inspection operations during the semester, examining over 40,000 vehicles in the province to enforce traffic regulations. Authorities also initiated 551 awareness campaigns targeting drivers, motorcyclists, pedestrians, and students.
Franco urged vehicle owners to perform regular mechanical check-ups and strictly follow highway safety codes to prevent further casualties.
