Hong Kong records more fatal traffic accidents in first half of 2026

Police say Hong Kong has recorded more than 7,000 traffic accidents that involve injuries in the first six months of this year, a 17% drop compared to the same period of 2025. However, the number of fatal traffic accidents has risen significantly.

In a press conference, the traffic police provide information for the number of traffic accidents, injuries and fatalities in the first six months of this year. For traffic accidents that involve injuries, the force records 7,341 cases, a drop of 17% compared to the same period of 2025. The number of injured people also decreases by 20%, reaching 9,055.

Fatal traffic accidents in the first half of the year rise by 44%, to 59 cases, whereas the number of fatalities is 63 people, a surge of 47%. Twenty-six of the deceased are passersby, with 18 being the elderly. Speaking of the vehicles involved in the fatal traffic accidents, the police say lorries stand at the top at 21%, followed by taxis at 16%. Minibuses and bicycles are tied at 13%.

The government plans to lower the body check requirement age from 70 or above to 65 for commercial vehicle drivers. Asked if there is a need to tighten the requirements for the group obtaining a licence in general, the police has this to say: Ho Chun-hin, Chief Inspector of road safety unit of traffic branch headquarters, says " the TLB is preparing the relevant legislation and we welcome all measures that can enhance road safety."

Meanwhile, the police have launched a three-week operation to educate and target illegal driving and crossing behaviours.

During the operation, the Transport Department will also cooperate with the police to strengthen enforcement against illegal driving behaviours, such as speeding and failure to comply with traffic signs and road markings.