Many vehicles have been damaged following a multiple-vehicle traffic accident on Ho Chi Minh Highway on January 4, 2026
According to the Traffic Police Department under the Ministry of Public Security, the number of accidents fell by 45 cases and fatalities dropped by 44 compared with the same holiday period in 2025, although the number of injured increased by 17.
All reported accidents occurred on roads, while no incidents were recorded on railways or waterways.
Ho Chi Minh City recorded the highest number of accidents (34), followed by Dong Nai (15), Hanoi (13) and Phu Tho (12). Haiphong and Thanh Hoa each reported 10 cases, while Danang and Lam Dong recorded eight each.
Ho Chi Minh City also saw the highest death toll, with 17 fatalities, followed by Dong Nai (11) and Hanoi (9).
Police said the main causes of accidents included drivers failing to pay attention, not reducing speed to safe levels, improper lane use, unsafe overtaking, incorrect turning, speeding and failure to maintain a safe distance.
During the four-day holiday, traffic police nationwide inspected and handled more than 40,000 violations, temporarily impounding over 400 cars and more than 11,000 motorcycles.
Experts attribute the decline in traffic accidents to intensified police patrols and inspections on major roads. Authorities focused on serious violations such as drink-driving, speeding, mobile phone use while driving, and other hazardous behaviours.
In addition, nationwide traffic safety campaigns, coupled with stricter monitoring of passenger and freight vehicles, encouraged drivers to exercise greater caution, reducing the risk of accidents.
