Speed, Negligence and Rising Losses: A Grim Traffic Toll on the Island
Traffic-related deaths in both the north and south of Cyprus have reached their highest levels in recent years, with experts warning that the toll could rise further by the end of the year. Accidents recorded across both sides over the past year paint a dangerous picture of irreversible losses, prompting concerns that both crashes and fatalities may reach a new peak.
38 Deaths in 35 Fatal Crashes in Northern Cyprus
According to figures cited by experts, Northern Cyprus recorded 35 fatal accidents resulting in 38 deaths between January and October 2025. Specialists note that the annual average has climbed above 50 in recent years and caution that the total number of fatalities in 2025 may surpass previous averages.
Özgül Gürkut Mutluyakalı, Vice President of the Road Traffic Accident Prevention Association, previously told Kıbrıs Postası that approximately 2,500 people have died in road accidents since 1974.
The regional distribution of fatal crashes recorded up to 27 October is as follows:
Nicosia: 8 crashes – 8 deaths
Famagusta: 5 crashes – 6 deaths
Kyrenia: 13 crashes – 15 deaths
Güzelyurt: 4 crashes – 4 deaths
İskele: 5 crashes – 5 deaths
South Cyprus Also Sees Record Losses
A similar picture emerges in South Cyprus. According to a Fileleftheros report citing the Greek Cypriot Police Traffic Department, 36 fatal accidents resulting in 41 deaths occurred in 2024, while this year 40 fatal crashes have caused 40 deaths. Analysts warn that by the end of the year, the death toll is likely to surpass last year’s figure.
Common Causes of Fatal Accidents
Speed remains the leading cause of fatal crashes on both sides of the island. Distracted driving and failure to comply with traffic rules also rank among the primary contributors.
A Global Picture: 1.1 Million Deaths Annually
According to World Health Organization data from 2023, around 1.1 million people die in road traffic accidents each year. These incidents remain the leading cause of death among individuals aged 5 to 29. Between 20 and 50 million people are injured annually.
The United Nations has designated the third Sunday of every November as the “World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims.”
Speaking to Anadolu Agency as part of the observance, David Cliff, CEO of the Global Road Safety Partnership, described the persistently high fatality rates as a “global epidemic.” He stressed that road safety relies not only on drivers but also on safe vehicles, safe roads, appropriate speed limits and adherence to traffic regulations.
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