22nd March 2025 – (Hong Kong) The Hong Kong Police Force reported yesterday that the first quarter of 2025 has already witnessed 21 fatal traffic accidents, resulting in 23 deaths—a 40% increase compared to the same period last year. Among the deceased, 11 were drivers and seven were pedestrians, with three pedestrians killed in minibus incidents.
Police attributed the primary causes of these accidents to speeding, reckless driving, insufficient following distance, unsafe lane changes, distracted driving, and driver fatigue. During a press conference, authorities presented footage of various traffic incidents to highlight the dangers of neglecting road safety. They urged the public to increase awareness and promote traffic safety among friends and family.
Reflecting on the previous year, the police revealed that in 2024, Hong Kong recorded 18,355 traffic accidents resulting in injuries, involving 23,659 individuals, the majority of whom sustained minor injuries. A total of 884 people were involved in fatal or serious injury incidents, a significant decrease of 305 from 1,189 in 2023—a decline of 26% and the lowest figure on record. In 2024, 88 individuals lost their lives in traffic accidents, eight fewer than in 2023, representing an 8% decrease. Furthermore, 42 pedestrians died in traffic incidents, down from 62 in 2023, marking a 32% decline and also a record low.
The police stated that Hong Kong’s traffic fatality rate is lower compared to major cities globally and across Asia. They credited this achievement to the collaboration between the Traffic Headquarters, the five major traffic regions, the Road Safety Council, the Transport Department, and other stakeholders. However, they emphasised that the focus and compliance of both pedestrians and drivers are crucial. Despite the improvements, police officials reiterated their commitment to reducing traffic accidents, insisting that “one accident is too many.”
As of mid-March 2025, the statistics indicate that the 21 fatal traffic accidents reported represent a significant rise from 15 during the same period last year. The number of fatalities has also increased, with this year’s toll reaching 23, up from 16 in the previous year—a 44% increase. Notably, of the 11 deceased drivers, five were motorcyclists, accounting for 40% of the fatalities, while three were truck drivers, and the remaining deaths involved one driver each from public service vehicles, taxis, and private cars, each constituting 9% of the total.