### La Paz: 14% Increase in Fatal Road Accidents
In recent months, the city of La Paz has witnessed a significant rise in traffic accidents, highlighting a 14% increase in fatalities compared to the previous year. The period from January to October 2024 saw a 10.4% rise in incidents involving injuries across the region. In La Paz alone, there was a staggering 36.5% increase in culpable injuries due to collisions. This surge has prompted local authorities to declare a “Red Code for Road Safety” to enhance street patrols and curb driving offenses, particularly targeting those driving under the influence.
Rut de la Fuente Velázquez, the director of Public Safety, highlighted the initiative’s importance: “Red Code for Road Safety involves coordinated efforts to position ourselves at key locations. We’ve seen effective results, such as reducing incidents by identifying and penalizing drunk drivers. We will continue enforcing this into the high season in December.”
A notable incident involved a 67-year-old pedestrian, Carlos, who was hit by a Nissan Kicks on November 12. The driver fled the scene, but was identified through surveillance footage and eyewitness accounts. The authorities are pursuing justice for Carlos and others affected by similar hit-and-run incidents.
Efforts have intensified to remove negligent drivers from the roads. Increased fines and potential license revocations are now in place for repeat offenders.
In addition to adult offenders, the involvement of underage drivers in serious traffic accidents raises concerns. For example, a 16-year-old, Marco, was involved in a fatal accident on November 11, underscoring the need for stricter regulations and parental awareness.
### Secondary Article: Rising Traffic Concerns in La Paz’s Neighborhoods
Various neighborhoods in La Paz are experiencing the brunt of increased traffic violations and accidents, leading residents to voice concerns over safety and insufficient law enforcement.
Residents in areas like Loma Linda and La Pasión report reckless driving, particularly among motorcyclists, and a lack of police presence. Francisca Dueñas from Loma Linda commented, “Here, the streets feel like a racetrack. We have many children, and drivers show little regard for safety.”
In response, the city has initiated measures like installing speed bumps, which have shown some positive effects. However, community members stress the need for consistent monitoring and enforcement against speeding and other offenses. This ongoing issue highlights the broader challenge of ensuring road safety and protecting residents in La Paz.
As traffic-related incidents remain a pressing issue, the city continues efforts to educate the public on road safety, fostering a more responsible driving culture to prevent further tragedies.