Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala ranks third nationwide in road accidents, yet it boasts the lowest fatality rate in India. Data from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways shows that while the national average sees 36 deaths per 100 accidents, Kerala reports just 8.5 deaths per 100 accidents.
Experts credit this to the state’s efficient healthcare system and rapid emergency response, which ensure accident victims reach multi-speciality hospitals within hours. In 2023 alone, Kerala recorded 48,091 accidents resulting in 4,080 deaths.
By comparison, Mizoram has the highest fatality rate at 90.6 deaths per 100 accidents, followed by Bihar (80.6) and Jharkhand (78.5). Tamil Nadu saw the highest number of accidents, with 67,123 incidents and 18,347 deaths, while Uttar Pradesh reported 44,534 accidents resulting in 23,652 deaths.
Within Kerala, Malappuram (3,253 accidents) and Kochi (2,803 accidents) topped the accident charts. However, Kollam recorded the highest fatality rate at 10%, followed by Malappuram. Analysts say Kerala’s prompt medical care and strong road safety infrastructure are key reasons for its low death rate despite frequent accidents.
