According to the Bac Lieu Provincial Traffic Safety Committee, 2024 recorded a significant increase in traffic accidents across the province. With 109 accidents reported, resulting in 53 fatalities and 95 injuries, road safety has become a major concern. Compared to the same period last year, accidents increased by 43%, injuries surged by 171%, though fatalities slightly decreased by 8.6%. So, what are the solutions to address this alarming trend?
Main Causes of Traffic Accidents
At the 2024 conference reviewing traffic order and safety efforts, experts identified several key causes of traffic accidents. Lieutenant Colonel Nguyen Thanh Toan, Deputy Chief of the Gia Rai Town Police, highlighted four common dangerous behaviors: improper overtaking, speeding, not wearing helmets, and driving under the influence.
Senior Lieutenant Colonel Nguyen Phuong Bac, Deputy Chief of Bac Lieu Provincial Traffic Police, added that the traffic awareness of some residents, especially young people, remains low. Additionally, poor driving skills, limited infrastructure, and encroachment on traffic corridors also contribute to increasing accident risks.
The installation of traffic cameras is considered an effective measure to enhance traffic compliance (Photo: Huynh Hai).
The Role of Traffic Surveillance Cameras
Many local leaders in Bac Lieu believe that installing traffic surveillance camera systems on roads is one of the most effective ways to reduce traffic violations. Mr. Huynh Nguyen Truc Linh, Vice President of the Bac Lieu Labor Federation, noted that freelancers are among the most frequent violators. Without cameras, they often run red lights or ignore other regulations.
“When there are cameras, people fear being fined retroactively and will comply with traffic laws more conscientiously,” Mr. Linh said. This not only helps reduce accidents but also fosters sustainable traffic culture within the community.
Lieutenant Colonel Nguyen Thanh Toan also emphasized that traffic police cannot monitor roads 24/7, so applying camera technology for retroactive fines is essential. This solution saves resources while positively influencing public behavior.
Proposals from Provincial Leaders
Bac Lieu Provincial People’s Committee Chairman Pham Van Thieu stressed that traffic awareness and culture are the most critical factors. Penalties are merely deterrents; thus, efforts should focus on raising public awareness through education.
Chairman Pham Van Thieu calls for enhanced traffic culture awareness (Photo: T.M).
Mr. Pham Van Thieu urged intensifying educational campaigns in schools, families, and social organizations. Notably, government officials and party members must set an example by strictly following traffic laws. Additionally, he requested sectors and associations to commit to reducing traffic violations among members, with non-compliance leading to criticism or loss of commendations.
Review of Traffic Signs
Another issue discussed was inconsistencies in the placement of “right turn on red” signs. Currently, some intersections in Bac Lieu have these signs, while others do not. Mr. Nguyen Huy Dung, Director of the Department of Transport, proposed reviewing all traffic signs to ensure compliance with current regulations.
Conclusion
Traffic accidents in Bac Lieu remain a pressing issue requiring comprehensive solutions. Leveraging technology like traffic cameras, combined with awareness campaigns and community education, will pave the way for a safer and more civilized traffic environment. Let’s all take responsibility to work towards a future free of traffic accidents.
Source: Dan Tri Newspaper
