Chartered Bus Traffic Accidents Return to Pre-COVID-19 Levels... Caution Advised During Vacation Season

Last Year, 1,042 Cases Occurred... A Sharp Increase Compared to 767 Cases in 2021

The number of charter bus traffic accidents, which sharply declined after the spread of COVID-19, returned to pre-pandemic levels last year.

According to the Korea Road Traffic Authority on the 18th, an analysis of traffic accidents involving charter buses over the past five years showed that the number of accidents last year was 1,042, returning to the early 1,000s range similar to before the COVID-19 outbreak. In 2020 and 2021, charter bus traffic accidents were at levels of 661 and 767 cases, respectively.

Monthly data revealed that charter bus traffic accidents were mainly concentrated during vacation and leisure seasons when group long-distance travel increases. In particular, among the 4,893 charter bus traffic accidents that occurred over the past five years, about 38%, or 1,854 cases, were recorded between August and November, spanning the summer vacation season through the autumn leisure season.

The Korea Road Traffic Authority warned that convoy driving, where drivers do not maintain a safe distance and drive in close formation, can easily lead to major traffic accidents. They also advised that it is desirable to take sufficient rest at rest areas or drowsiness shelters during long-distance trips.

Passengers were also urged to wear seat belts, and it was emphasized that drinking and partying must never be done as it can lead to severe casualties in the event of a traffic accident.

A representative from the Korea Road Traffic Authority stated, “Since charter buses carry many passengers, more casualties can occur in the event of a traffic accident,” adding, “As the use of charter buses is expected to increase during vacation and leisure seasons, heightened traffic safety awareness is especially required from both drivers and passengers.”

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.