23 die over long weekend in fatal traffic accidents

SANTIAGO.- This morning, national police released reports indicating a total of 23 fatalities as a result of traffic accidents on highways nationwide over the long weekend.

Major Marcelo Ávalos told Emol that the number of deaths was the result of 709 traffic accidents.  Of the fatalities, nine involved pedestrians that were hit “with the main party responsible being the pedestrian”.

The 23 fatalities also include five alcohol-related accidents, while the majority of the crashes were caused by speeding and loss of vehicle control.

“We deeply regret the number of deaths; although there were 35 fatalities reported in 2008 during the same dates, the figure is still significant.  Speeding, alcohol consumption and irresponsibility amongst pedestrians continue to play a major role in fatal accidents”, he assured.

Police have already begun a campaign to alter pedestrian behavior and have begun issuing traffic tickets to those who infringe upon traffic laws.