Road safety warnings issued regarding traffic accidents and animal collisions

The Guatemalan Social Security Institute (IGSS) has issued a call for increased road safety awareness following significant injury and fatality statistics. Between January and July 2026, the National Transit Security Observatory recorded 920 deaths and 3,927 injuries in traffic accidents. Within IGSS services, nearly 24,000 patients were treated for accidents through August, with motorcyclists accounting for 21,890 of those cases.

To mitigate risks such as speeding, distracted driving, and driving under the influence, the IGSS recommends respecting speed limits, maintaining safe distances, and using protective gear like helmets and seatbelts.

Separately, safety guidelines highlight the dangers of animal collisions on roads, particularly during dawn and dusk. Experts advise against sudden swerving when an animal enters the roadway, as uncontrolled maneuvers can lead to head-on collisions or vehicles leaving the road. Instead, drivers are encouraged to brake firmly while staying within their lane to minimize the force of impact.