Libya records over 600 road deaths in three months

More than 600 people died on Libyan roads between July and September, with traffic accidents causing damage worth $4.1 million, official figures reveal.

The Ministry of Interior reported 2,384 accidents during the third quarter of 2023, resulting in 629 fatalities and nearly 2,000 injuries. Of those injured, 1,006 were seriously hurt whilst 933 suffered moderate injuries.

The crashes damaged 3,857 vehicles across the country, according to statistics released by the Government of National Unity.

Officials blame the high casualty rate on widespread disregard for traffic laws, particularly speeding, mobile phone use whilst driving, and dangerous overtaking. Poor vehicle maintenance was also cited as a contributing factor.

“Traffic safety is a collective responsibility”, a ministry spokesperson said. “Reducing these devastating accidents begins with drivers following basic road rules and avoiding risky behaviour”.

The ministry is calling for urgent measures to address the rising accident rate, which has become a major public safety concern in Libya.