Traffic police conduct an alcohol breath test on a driver on January 1. — Photo baovephapluat.vn

HÀ NỘI — Traffic accidents across Việt Nam fell sharply on the first day of 2026, with authorities reporting steep year-on-year declines in both fatalities and injuries during one of the country’s busiest travel periods.

Police recorded 49 road accidents nationwide on January 1, killing 18 people and injuring 41 others.

The figures mark a significant improvement from the same day last year. The number of accidents dropped by nearly one-third, while fatalities fell by more than half.

Injuries also edged lower, though the decline was modest.

All of the accidents occurred on roads. No incidents were reported on railways or inland waterways, police said.

The New Year holiday traditionally brings a surge in travel, prompting tighter enforcement across the country.

On the day, traffic police handled more than 10,400 violations, temporarily seizing 53 cars, 2,408 motorbikes and 155 other vehicles.

Authorities also revoked 344 driving licences and deducted points in 1,742 cases.

Alcohol-related offences accounted for more than 2,000 of the violations recorded, while four cases involved drug use. Police also cited more than 2,000 drivers for speeding or using mobile phones while driving. — VNS