19-vehicle pile-up in Diwaniyah due to fog leaves one woman dead

DIWANIYAH — A collision involving 19 vehicles occurred on Thursday morning in Diwaniyah province along the International Highway due to heavy fog and poor visibility, resulting in the death of one woman, according to the Iraq’s General Traffic Directorate.

In a statement, the General Traffic Directorate said, “A collision involving 19 vehicles took place on the international highway in Diwaniyah due to dense fog, poor visibility, and insufficient safe distances between vehicles. The incident resulted in the death of one woman. May she rest in peace.”

The statement added that traffic patrols were dispatched immediately to manage the scene and implement the necessary measures.

Authorities urged drivers to adhere to speed limits, follow safe driving instructions during foggy conditions, and maintain adequate distance between vehicles to prevent further incidents.

Traffic accidents remain a significant concern in Iraq. In 2023, the country, excluding the Kurdistan Region, recorded 11,552 traffic accidents, resulting in 3,019 fatalities and 12,314 injuries. This marked a slight increase from 2022, which saw 11,523 accidents and 3,021 deaths. Driver error accounted for approximately 79% of these incidents, with vehicle-related issues and poor road conditions contributing to the remainder.

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