HPG: October, November deadliest months for road mishaps

MANILA, Philippines — The months of October and November were the deadliest in terms of road accidents this year.

Data from the police Highway Patrol Group (HPG) showed that 265 people died in vehicular accidents in October while 124 died in November.

The figures showed an increase of 179.85 percent compared to August and September when 139 road accidents were recorded.

The HPG logged 52 deaths in July.

Up to 13,085 road accidents were recorded from Jan. 1 to Dec. 11 nationwide, leaving 1,028 people dead.

Speeding, using cell phones while driving, overtaking and drunk driving were among the most common causes of road mishaps.

Mechanical defects of vehicles and poor road conditions are the other causes of accidents.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has intensified its campaign against motorists violating Republic Act 10586 or the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act.

PNP chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin has ordered police units to assist the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority and Land Transportation Office in implementing the law to reduce road accidents, especially during the holiday season.