Motorcycle injury stats keep breaking records

PHUKET: The number of people injured in traffic accidents involving motorcycles continues to reach new heights, according to the latest statistics released by the Wachira, Thalang and Patong government hospitals. Between September 20 and October 20, 958 people were injured in motorcycle accidents, boosting the year’s total to 9,481 – a 12% rise on the 8,434 injured in the same period last year. Eighty-two people were injured in non-motorbike-related road accidents during the period, taking the total road injuries to 756 for the year so far. However, while the injury statistics spiral higher, the motorbike death toll is continuing its downward trend with 116 deaths recorded for the year to date, compared with 141 last year.