ROAD crash incidents in Davao City rose by 31.3 percent in the first seven months of 2025 compared to the same period last year, according to the Traffic Enforcement Unit (TEU)
During the iSpeak forum on Thursday, July 30, TEU chief Lt. Col. Christian Antonio D. Garcia reported that a total of 2,598 road crashes were recorded from January to July this year, up from 1,998 cases logged in the same period in 2024.
These incidents involved 4,864 vehicles, marking a 25 percent increase compared to last year’s figures. The majority were private vehicles (37 percent), followed by motorcycles (21 percent) and trucks (10 percent).
In terms of severity, 83 percent of the incidents caused property damage, 14 percent led to minor injuries, two percent resulted in serious injuries, and about one percent were fatal.
Garcia attributed 96 percent of these accidents to human error, citing distracted driving, cellphone use, fatigue, and general disregard for traffic rules as the most common causes. Mechanical issues and road defects each accounted for 2 percent.
He raised alarm over dangerous driving behavior, particularly along C.P. Garcia Highway and MacArthur Highway, which some motorists treat “like a racetrack” when no traffic enforcers are present.
The top accident-prone areas identified were Carlos P. Garcia Highway (19 percent), McArthur Highway (seven percent), Cabantian (four percent), Panacan (four percent), and Ma-a Road (four percent).
Most crashes occurred during the 2 to 4 p.m. window, while the safest period was between 2 and 6 a.m.
To address the rising incidents, Garcia said the TEU is working with the Land Transportation Office (LTO) to train more personnel on proper traffic enforcement and related laws.
Garcia urged all motorists to observe traffic rules, drive responsibly, and remain alert behind the wheel to help reduce accidents on Davao City’s roads. DEF