The Ministry of Public Works and Transport reported on March 5 that there were 113 road deaths in the first two months of the year, with 56 percent involving motorcycle riders. In January, there were 32 motorcycle fatalities out of a total of 59 road deaths, and in February, there were 31 out of 54.
This trend continues a pattern seen since 2014, where motorcycles are the vehicles most frequently involved in fatal accidents. The next highest category was automobiles, with 17 deaths during the same period. Martín Sánchez Agüero, director of the Traffic Police, said: “A new year brings the same behaviors as always, whether from motorcyclists who are not prudent or from hostile or reckless attitudes by other road users that result in fatalities. To these 63 cases we must add another 11 deaths involving another two-wheeled vehicle—the bicycle—which ranks third on the list.”
Sánchez Agüero outlined several safety recommendations for cyclists and motorcyclists: avoid lifting the front wheel or performing stunts, respect red lights and stop signs, do not overtake on the right side, do not drive against traffic or on sidewalks, and make themselves visible with lights and reflective clothing. He also urged other drivers—such as those operating buses, trucks, and cars—not to pressure two-wheeled vehicles to move aside or block their path.
Speeding remains a major factor in road fatalities. In January, speeding was linked to 21 out of 59 deaths (36 percent), while in February it was associated with 23 out of 54 deaths (43 percent). Sánchez Agüero emphasized the importance of reducing speed on roads, especially now that schools have resumed and more children and young people are present.
Additionally, he noted that another significant cause is improper overtaking due to impatience; there were reportedly 22 deaths related to crossing into oncoming lanes. Reckless driving accounted for a further 13 fatalities during this period.
Sánchez Agüero concluded by highlighting ongoing concerns about risky behavior among all types of road users.
